How to Incorporate Montessori for Aging & Dementia into Long-Term Care

Presented by Jennifer Brush

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Video Runtime: 68 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 29 Minutes

Montessori for Aging and Dementia is a philosophy of care, which focuses on engaging the older adult in an environment that is adapted to support memory loss and sensory impairment and facilitate independence. As a result, older adults are empowered to care for themselves and others, make contributions to their community, and engage in meaningful activities. This course, taught by an international expert on Montessori will provide a unique overview of how to incorporate Montessori for Aging and Dementia into long-term care to improve dementia programs.

Meet your instructor

Jennifer Brush

Jennifer Brush, MA, CCC/SLP is an award-winning Dementia Educator, author, and consultant. Passionate about enriching the lives of people with dementia, Jennifer is on a mission to put the focus of care on the person’s preferences, interests, and abilities. With her 25 years of industry experience, including leading…

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Chapters & learning objectives

A Life with Meaning and Purpose

1. A Life with Meaning and Purpose

In order to maintain personhood, individuals living with dementia need a reason to get out of bed each day. The Montessori philosophy focuses on identifying roles and routines that enable individuals to contribute to the community in a meaningful way.

What is Montessori?

2. What is Montessori?

The Montessori philosophy creates a caring community that is aligned with the individual’s needs, interests, abilities, skills, and strengths. Specially designed materials increase engagement and the environment is carefully prepared to meet and nurture the needs of each person. Staff know when to observe and step back, allowing the person with dementia to experience the moment.

What is a Prepared Environment?

3. What is a Prepared Environment?

The Montessori environment in long-term care is carefully prepared to compensate for declarative memory impairment and support independence. Cues such as low height shelves filled with accessible materials, signage, lighting, contrast, and templates are used to support independence.