Montessori-Based Approach for Alzheimer's and Dementia: Handbook for Implementing Activities in an Adult Day Care Program
As the continued growth of the older adult population surges, the number of people living with dementia is expected to increase. The loss of cognitive function that results from dementia poses numerous challenges for those living with the disease and those caring for them. A solution to these challenges can be found in adult day care programs. Thus, adult day care program directors face new opportunities to expand the services they provide; however, the quality of these programs is mostly unknown due to the lack of standardization and available knowledge. Montessori for dementia care provides quality programming with meaningful person-centered activities. The implementation of a Montessori-based program for persons living with dementia has been discovered to have many benefits. However, most of the current applications have focused on the implementation of the Montessori method in long-term care communities and home settings, not in the adult day care setting.
was developed based on research, observations, and feedback from expert panelists in the field of aging. The handbook's design and content introduce the Montessori method for dementia care, key principles, barriers, and challenges as well as organizational strategies, preparing the environment, and developing programs and meaningful person-centered activities. Additionally, information to support participants, staff, and family involvement is provided. The overarching goal of this handbook is to increase the utilization of adult day care services while improving the quality of life of program participants, staff, and family members.
Awarded Outstanding Graduate Project by the CSULB College of Health & Human Services, 2023-2024