Diamondback Health and Memory Care has embraced the Montessori-inspired lifestyle to further enhance our care for individuals with dementia who reside in our memory care facility at Desert Diamond Memory Care Pavilion.
What Is the Montessori-Inspired Lifestyle?
The Montessori-inspired lifestyle is a unique approach to memory care in assisted living facilities, grounded in the principles of respect, dignity and equality. It is an adaptation of the educational system developed by Maria Montessori, which emphasizes self-sufficiency, confidence and decision-making.
Why Is It Important in a Memory-Care Setting?
The foundation of a Montessori-inspired lifestyle is nurturing a sense of independence, self-sufficiency and confidence. In the context of memory care, this lifestyle allows residents to focus on their individual strengths and engage in meaningful activities. The approach is not limited to scheduled activities but permeates all aspects of daily life, with every team member trained to empower residents to make choices and feel connected to their community.
This could involve being offered meal choices, caring for a community garden, or helping tidy up after group activities. The goal is to improve the overall quality of life for residents by giving control back to the individual whenever possible, fostering a sense of purpose and community.
How Our Caregivers Participate in the Montessori-Inspired Lifestyle Commitment
The training for the Montessori-inspired Lifestyle involves participating in the official Montessori for Dementia program, which is taught by certified experts. The training involves a combination of live training, seminars and online coursework.
After successful completion of the program, our caregivers are credentialed in the Montessori-inspired Lifestyle for Dementia. But there is one last, important step.
At the end of their specialized training program, our caregivers take the Montessori-inspired Lifestyle Pledge, which is as follows:
- I will work to create a place where I would want to live.
- I will remember that I am a guest in the home of my residents.
- I will treat everyone I meet with respect, dignity, and equality.
- I will remember that I must earn the trust of others, and that they must learn to trust me.
- I will apply the Montessori principles in everything that I do.
- I will treat everyone I meet the way I wish to be treated.
How Does This Program Benefit Those Living With Dementia and Memory Issues?
The Montessori-inspired lifestyle offers significant benefits to those living with dementia and memory issues. The approach is rooted in rehabilitation techniques and human values, which have shown great success in enhancing the lives of those with memory loss. By focusing on residents’ individual strengths, the program improves their overall quality of life, giving them a sense of control and purpose.
Trained caregivers play a crucial role in this process, encouraging residents to take the initiative and make personal choices. The program also fosters a sense of community, empowering residents to participate in various activities to enhance their sense of purpose and connection.
The caregivers at the Desert Diamond Memory Pavilion at Diamondback Health Care are focused on providing the best possible care through their training in this program. To learn more, please contact us today.