THE 12 S's OF EXTRAORDINARY DEMENTIA CARE

In our opinion, the ultimate goal in dementia care is for all people to live the sunset years of their lives in COMFORT and DIGNITY. However, achieving that goal...like achieving any goal...requires a series of action steps.

For example, if one aims to fly a Boeing 747 aircraft, it's unlikely that person would jump in the Captain's seat and "give it a try." There would be much to do and learn before declaring the goal accomplished.

Similarly, when attempting to provide EXTRAORDINARY CARE for those with dementia, much must be done before the goal is achieved. Of course, providing physical comfort is one important element, but there are also matters of the mind and heart. Following is a list of what we believe to be 12 IMPORTANT THINGS (in no particular order) that can be done to assure that needs of those with dementia are met.

SAFETY

Most people with dementia worry about being hurt or making a serious error. Minimizing serious potential danger, along with reassuring words, helps people feel secure.

SELF-ESTEEM

Feelings of not being "okay" in both mental abilities and physical appearance can be quickly dispelled with short, well-placed comments of praise.

SERENITY

Peaceful environment...soft voices. People with dementia may startle easily at noise others might consider "normal."

SIMPLICITY

Very, very few decisions...and those are simple...and offered as choices rather than mandates.

SMILES

Most of communication is carried in body language/facial expression (55%) and voice tone/ inflection (38%)...only 7% comes from the words we say. "When there's a smile on your face, there's almost always a smile in your voice."

SPIRITUALITY

Attending church, praying and singing hymns are deeply ingrained parts of the formative years of many elders. Even when decades have passed since the most recent singing of old hymns, those with dementia often pick up on melody, words and a sense of peace.

SPONTANEITY

One of the absolute joys for both caregivers and those with dementia is "living in the moment." When caregivers watch for subtle signs of playfulness or unscripted reactions...and respond with smiles and laughter...the connection is immediate and positive.

STIMULATION

Memory may not be restored but it might be retrieved.  During times when the mind is stimulated, there is often, what we refer to as, a "trigger/flash" phenomenon.

STRESS-FREE

Avoid saying things that cause a sense of inadequacy...steer clear of reprimanding tones and instead use gentle suggestions.

STRUCTURE

The basic framework of dementia care should be consistent. Things like chairs and lamps shouldn't be moved around, the schedule should have similarities from day to day.

STURDINESS

Tufts University studies show that physical health improves...immediately (especially with older women) when simple exercises are part of the daily routine. And with some easy choices, foods that reduce cholesterol, blood pressure and the effects of osteoporosis can taste good.

SUN

People who have dementia tend to become reclusive...without guidance and a simple invitation to step out into the sunlight. Being in well lit places has positive, immediate impacts on mood.