Services

This workshop helps learners understand and recognize the differences in typical and atypical aging. The learner will develop better observational skills to recognize and intervene effectively when behavioral challenges occur. Learners will also develop new skills related to approach, cueing, and the ability to connect with people affected by dementia. The workshop will also address typical changes that happen in the early, middle, and late stages of the condition including the final care concerns. Workshop Objectives:

· Compare and contrast typical aging versus not atypical aging related to various cognitive functions.

· Describe the five sensory input and processing systems, highlighting the dominant role of vision, and the major differences between protective and discriminating sensation in each.

· Discuss the impact of changing sensory awareness and processing as dementia progresses.

*This workshop is also suitable for the general public to enhance understanding and awareness.

This workshop helps learners understand how to adapt how we interact when the other person’s brain is changing. This workshop will include explanations of how the brain is changing when someone is living with dementia and what care partners can do to be supportive. Learners will practice the use of Positive Physical Approach™(PPA) and Hand-under-Hand®, developed by Teepa Snow. Both techniques are based in building relationships and doing with people instead of to people. Workshop Objectives:

· Describe changes in visual processing

· Compare and contrast traditional social greeting and communication efforts with PPA as it relates to reactions and responses from the person living with dementia.

· Demonstrate PPA in simulated situations

· Describe the purpose and value of using the Hand-under-Hand® technique with people living with dementia.

· Demonstrate Hand-under-Hand® to promote mobility and assistance with ADLs

This workshop helps learners understand the GEMS® Model developed by Teepa Snow. This model is based on the Allen cognitive scale and focuses on what is retained for people living with dementia instead of only focusing on what is lost. In identifying retained skills and abilities, learners will be able to provide the right level of support and assistance in care with people in different ability states. By understanding GEM® States, we can learn to provide the best care and setting so that everyone can shine. Workshop Objectives:

· Discuss the value and importance of seeing people living with dementia as having retained abilities, value, and benefiting from the right support and care to optimize performance and quality of life

· Identify six GEMS® States – highlighting retained abilities for each GEMS® State

· Compare and contrast 6 states of cognitive function and ability as GEMS® States

· Practice ways to help the person being cared for feel productive and valued

This  program  reviews how the brain, vision and body change as dementia progresses, and how approaches can be adjusted to meet needs of individuals, ensuring care remains personalized and supportive throughout the disease's progression.

Topics that will be addressed are how to adapt to changes in:

• Brain structure
• Impulse control
• Language & verbal skills
• Memory
• and more...

Recognizing  symptoms  of  dementia  is  vital  for  emergency  service  personnel.    This program  was

created  to  help  law  enforcement  officers,  fire  fighters,  EMTs,  911 dispatchers,  and  emergency  room  personnel  receive an updated understanding of dementia, focusing on common symptoms and behaviors that are challenging for public service and security providers.

Signs and symptoms will be discussed and demonstrated in combination with simple and effective strategies to recognize the condition, engage the person, and reduce resistance and distress in crisis or routine communication, interaction, or transport situations.

The session is highly interactive and will provide learners with opportunities for hands-on skill building, physical & verbal interaction skills.

Combine 3 workshops to receive a full day of training.

1. Positive Physical Approach™(PPA) and Hand-under-Hand®

2. Seeing GEMS®, not just loss

3. Adapting to Change

*see details of each workshop featured on this page