DAWN Method series for dementia care set to begin April 3

There is hope in dementia, which relies on the kind of care we provide. Providing strength-based, person-centered care for dementia means looking at the whole person and working with what they can do rather than focusing on what dementia takes away.
People with dementia are losing their rational thought, but will never lose their intuitive view (being in the moment, appreciating beauty, music, etc.). If their companions and caregivers are taught how to support their strengths, there is less stress for the person with dementia and those providing care.
This was the message Jill Couch, MS, licensed occupational therapist, certified Dementia & Alzheimer’s Wellbeing Network specialist, and founder of Better People Care shared with six eastern rural counties in her introductory presentation “Gifts of Dementia,” sponsored by Colorado State University Extension in October of 2022.
Dementia is a deterioration of brain function that differs from normal aging. Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. It also affects behaviors, emotions and the ability to use the rational part of your brain to process information. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. Although there is currently no medical cure, there is a great need to improve the care and support provided to persons with dementia and their caregivers.
Couch has the privilege of being a DAWN dementia care specialist and trainer, which allows her to bring hope and help to those with dementia and their families. She was inspired to become a dementia care specialist after her grandmother’s journey through Alzheimer’s disease without any dementia-specialist care. When Couch has the privilege of giving even small glimpses of the DAWN Method to a family, it’s as if they get to take a deep breath for the first time in a really long time.
The DAWN Method, created by Judy Cornish, is a kind, strength-based, person-centered approach to caring for those with dementia and Alzheimer’s. It empowers families, caregivers and working medical professionals to help extend a more comfortable environment. The DAWN Method provides the opportunity to learn specific tools related to mood management, security in confusion and care, social success, a sense of control, value, and a secure future.

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