Why would anyone think of applying Montessori principles to Dementia care?
First, do not fall into the error of thinking that using Montessori methods in dementia care is treating the dementia patient as a child. Montessori materials are not simply activities to occupy someone’s time. It is critically important to know that the materials function best when they are part and parcel of a prepared environment geared to the developmental stage of the dementia patient.
Separating the materials from Dr. Montessori’s original insights misses the point. Observation is the key to applying the materials as well as to creating new materials.
Observation allows you to understand the perceptual experience of the dementia patient. With a clearer idea of that perceptual experience, of how the individual engages and perceives the world around them, enables you to identify those aspects of the environment support the patient’s abilities and those that trigger fear. Fear undermines the sense of safety, it undermines any confidence in the connection to the world.
This kind of observation requires close attention to how the patient expresses their internal state externally.
You can create a safe environment of support, you can minimize fear. The result is tremendously beneficial to the one with dementia, the caregiver(s), and the family.
These insights are applicable in care facilities, hospitals and for first responders, limiting the risk and depth of the catastrophic reactions that are not uncommonly experienced in the dementia journey.