Lessons in Preparing Dinner

I want to share this quick story on my recent experience preparing dinner with a companion with dementia!  This companion may be experiencing cognitive change, but she can still maintain autonomy and independence in everyday tasks like cutting strawberries! https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cyn_HF2ulvm/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

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A Word to Medical Providers

Pause before you recommend a level of care for people living in their own homes or recommend a care facility. The reality of how someone functions in their own home may not always be clear in your short interaction. The DAWN method is a functional way to assess a person’s need for care and what level of care they need.…

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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…

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Why the DAWN Method Works

People who watch us interact with their loved ones can sometimes be surprised by how peaceful our interactions are. It looks peaceful because it is! The DAWN method taught us how to create a situation in which our companions feel safe and secure and in which we can bring well-being into their lives.  If you want to learn more about…

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Creating Deeper Relationships

Sharing a quick personal story with you today! When visiting with our folks with dementia if we listen well for common phrases they say and use them back with them it resonates. We can memorize the rhythm of what they say and use it back with them to create deeper relationships and intimacy! https://www.instagram.com/p/CqvQFB0tWty/

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Take a Deep Breath

This video is a quick reminder to be kind in situations that might be frustrating for you as a caregiver. Our friends experiencing dementia want to take good care of their surroundings and have good intentions in what they do, but often their diminishing cognitive skills get in the way.  For example, they might leave a cupboard door hanging open…

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