Montessori
Many of us are familiar with the term Montessori as it applies to education but only a few of us in Australia are familiar with the application of Montessori methods for Dementia.
As an innovative method of working with older adults living with cognitive and or physical impairments, Montessori has the potential to change the lives of people in residential care. Montessori for Dementia is based on the educational philosophies of famed childhood educator Dr. Maria Montessori. Her philosophy and principles were discovered to be effectively adapted to dementia care.
Research has provided clear evidence of decreases in responsive behaviours and increased levels of engagement and participation in activities when Montessori approaches are implemented.
Montessori for Dementia provides the framework for realising the vision of independence, high self-esteem and a promising future for people living with dementia.
Montessori for Dementia is a model of care, a new way to deliver care which requires us to change allow thought we knew about dementia and providing care for people living with dementia. Montessori foe dementia focuses on supporting bothe the person and the environment which is adapted to support memory loss and independence. we are unable to change the terrible effects of dementia but by embracing Montessori principles and implementing environmental captions (including meaningful activities, roles and environmental cueing) we can circumvent the dementia. the result is that people living with dementia are able to make meaningful contributions to their community, engage in meaningful activities in addition to having the opportunity to maintain, and even restore function. the approach is flexible, innovation and grounded in research.