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/
As an occupational therapist, I understand that when we change a shoe, we change the softness, height, etc, which changes the input the body receives through the foot.
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==
Our companions feel secure regardless of their changing abilities when we can create a secure and safe environment.
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…
This question is one anyone caring for a loved one with dementia will face. Often they will consider moving their loved one to a care facility. But, I'd caution that most of the time moving away from home is not a necessary initial response for individuals experiencing dementia or other cognitive and physical changes that come with age. I want…
I’ve recently had the privilege of spending time with a gentleman who loves to cook but is also experiencing Parkinson’s and dementia. As I think about a plan of care, I would want to focus on helping him continue to cook because it is something he greatly enjoys. There will be changes, and it will be my job to accommodate…
It is a topic that brings a lot of concern. Sometimes, the individual is still healthy, eating good meals, and taking care of themselves, but losing weight. This can be a natural part of dementia/aging for some people, becoming less interested in food and filling up more quickly. Listen to the video for more! Additionally, check out this great article…
The DAWN Method taught me and what I’ve observed to be true is that when people don’t have enough care, they will show signs of distress in their homes. Revealing to us they need more care! If they have too much care or the incorrect type of care, we will see them refuse the care! People accept it when we…
Our companions with dementia have lost some significant cognitive skills, but we can set the environment up to accommodate those losses and support their strengths. For example, one of my companions has a very important cognitive strength that he gets to live out with our help. He gets to enjoy the beauty of his life and specifically his backyard and…
