This made me really think about how we can incorporate these methods into everyday life within our homes, helping people to retain lifelong skills for as long as possible.
One example being ‘John was losing the ability to feed himself so let’s feed him’, but what we should be saying is ‘John is losing the ability to feed himself; how can we help John to retain this skill for as long as possible’
An internationally known research scientist in the field of aging, Dr Cameron Camp said ‘We look at dementia as a form of disability rather than a disease. When you focus on dementia as disability you are focussing on deficits- Our approach is what can we do to help people living with dementia’ Dr Camp said.
The Montessori approach is widely recognised as an excellent non pharmalogical intervention and a more effective means of better engaging people living with dementia.
In a 2016 study Dr Camp found that participants of the Montessori programme showed improvement in some activities like people being able to feed themselves. The use of antipsychotics, antidepressant and sleeping tablets also decreased.
Maria Montessori’s philosophy is that every human being has the right to be treated with respect and dignity, to have a meaningful role in a community and contribute to the best of their abilities.
At Rhencullen we wholeheartedly agree with this philosophy, and we are introducing part of this approach to further support our person-centred programme.
We continue to create opportunities for people living with dementia to engage in meaningful activities, maintain a level of autonomy and dignity in continuing to make valuable contributions to their community.
At Rhencullen we are focusing on
Cognitive skills – We use discussions about current events, puzzles, making words with objects, identifying famous landmarks, and completing crosswords, we encourage the mind to stay active.
Life Skills - We look at people’s skills, history, and background. For example, if a person worked on a farm or had a garden, we plan activities around this. If someone was a DIY enthusiast we use simple activities with hand tool, or a keen baker we support people to make their favourite recipes- delicious food for everyone!
Movement - Motion and slow movements can be calming and help people remain active. We do seated or standing exercises which are compared to ‘picking an apple from a tree ‘or ‘placing flowers in a vase.’
Sensory – Sensory activities keep the whole mind alert. Smells such as Citrus, Lavender, Cherry, and Vanilla, we have fun identifying these scents! For taste we try different types of fruit and even a spice day! Touch is important too identifying objects in a cloth bag can be so much fun!
Music – I am a strong believer that music is an extremely powerful tool for reaching people with dementia even in the advanced stage of the illness people can still recognise and respond to music. Often the part of the brain which recognises and responds to music, is the last to be affected. Listening to music, identifying songs, and singing along with others are great group bonding activities. Simple interactions with musical instruments such as drumming or ringing bells can be useful, rewarding and incorporate movement.
Art - We can support people to draw and paint for example copying a photo or choose a picture that people would like to draw.
Socialising – Dining is a great way to socialise because it is an activity that is done every day. People can interact with others and share experiences. People can set the tables and help prepare their favourite dish! Just having a conversation during dinner makes everyone feel like the belong and always encourages them to interact with others.
The Montessori methods can have tremendous benefits for people with dementia as well as their loved ones and we are continuing to promote this approach throughout our homes.
I will keep you all regularly updated with the progress we are making
Best wishes
Mandy
