Imagine this new resident arriving at your memory care community or day center (or being supported in-home): a six-foot tall, 185-pound, 62-year-old man who is in great physical shape but has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD). FTD affects more men than women, typically between 55 and 65. Classically, FTD affects the areas of the brain that influence personality and behavior. Personality change (even more than memory loss) is the… Read More »
Launching a volunteer program in your memory care community can improve the care and engagement of persons with dementia. The life experiences and talents of energetic and motivated volunteers can complement the gifts of your well-trained staff. Volunteers may play the piano, create and lead art and music programs, accompany groups on field trips, or serve on boards or committees—always with the Knack of great care. I’ve seen volunteers add… Read More »
How do you feel when someone calls you by the wrong name? Probably not very happy! We all want to be called by our correct name. Persons with dementia have a name most familiar to them. This is their preferred name, and it’s what they want to hear. Knowing and using their preferred name is a key building block of the Best Friends™ Approach and a first step in developing… Read More »