Be With Them
This holds true for people experiencing dementia as well. Much more than a solution for whatever might be causing them stress, people need empathy and someone willing to be with them. ♥️
Keeping it Simple
We don’t always have to come up with grand things to do with our companions who are experiencing dementia. Going somewhere as simple as the hardware store can create a rich place for sensory and social experiences. Even while some of their cognitive skills are diminishing, their brains still benefit from some stimulation! https://www.instagram.com/p/CzEjYg1OaS6/
Working WITH Dementia
The DAWN Method has taught me how to work WITH dementia. To create an atmosphere that preserves dignity, self-respect, a sense of autonomy, independence, control, and more for those experiencing cognitive change due to dementia.In this way, they can continue to feel like human beings with value and skill! For that, I am grateful! https://www.instagram.com/p/CygD407utOV/
The Privilege of Spending Time
Our companions feel secure regardless of their changing abilities when we can create a secure and safe environment.
Patterns in the Dementia Journey
Everyone enters into the dementia journey with their own history, personality, preferences, and habits. Yet, there is always a pattern with the skills that are lost and kept. There is a pattern with how this affects a person’s ability to meet their own needs. I learned this with the DAWN method. This has helped me know how to help those…
Adapting to Changes
A quick story about how what I learned with the DAWN method has helped me better understand the actions of my companions with dementia. What I have learned allows me to suggest things that improve their quality of life and adapt to their changing cognitive state. https://www.instagram.com/p/Ctjqva5gNZl/
Honoring A Good Man
“Thank you for your service, Sir.” He served in the United States Army, as a Field Artillery soldier. And he served for decades in the Colorado Parks and Wildlife, helping preserve wildlife and wild lands for people to enjoy for generations to come. In his later years, he took up painting and was good at it, too. He continued riding…
Dementia Care With a Smile
I read the humorous quote above with my companion with dementia the other day. She has advanced dementia, yet we both laughed. In fact, she asked me to read it again, and we laughed a second time as well. I am well aware that my companion’s ability to understand words is changing. I am aware that her changing rational thinking…
A Message of Hope
There is hope in the dementia journey. Our companions with dementia can still have a good quality of life and wellbeing even as their cognitive skills change. Even as they experience dementia, there is an opportunity for hope, beauty, and many sweet times together. This is where the DAWN method makes all the difference. Reach out for more information! https://www.instagram.com/p/CrLe1H2AFMw/
Pressure isn’t helpful.
Pressure isn’t helpful. This is a quick reminder to be gentle and sensitive when connecting with a spouse serving as the caregiver. Remember that if your loved one is experiencing dementia, they do not understand that they need help and most likely will not welcome this help. This is where caregiving by stealth is so important. Reach out for more…