“Joy, feeling one’s own value, being appreciated and loved by others, feeling useful and capable of production are all factors of enormous value for the human soul.” – Dr. Maria Montessori
The Montessori Dementia Program has been designed for family members, PSW’s, and other care providers and volunteers who are supporting individuals living with dementia. It will present a new way to think about and provide support for persons living with Dementia and their caregivers, using proven Montessori philosophy and systems. The program design provides practical techniques and methods taught by experienced Montessori and Dementia trainers. The Montessori Dementia Program online course was developed and designed by Montessori and Dementia specialists to meet a growing need in the community. It provides you an alternative approach to care giving and supporting individuals living with early to mid-stage Dementia.
You will learn how the Montessori philosophy and practices can be adapted to enhance the quality of life of people living with Dementia. The Montessori approach focuses on maintaining the independence, cognitive abilities and communication skills of people living with Dementia for as long as possible while providing opportunities for purposeful engagement and community involvement.
A Dementia specialist will discuss the different types of Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and the typical symptoms that can be expected as Dementia progresses. A Montessori specialist will discuss the fundamental principles of the Montessori approach as adapted for Dementia care and will address the significance of key areas of the Montessori method. Upon successful completion of all four modules, including required assignments, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion.
Module 1: Overview of Montessori and Dementia
Module 2: Responsive Behaviors
Module 3 and 4: The Montessori Approach
The Montessori Dementia Program has been designed to assist family members, health care providers, Personal Support Workers, and volunteers who are supporting individuals living with early to mid-stage Dementia in their homes, respite care, adult day centers, retirement and long-term care residences.
The Montessori Dementia Program is a self-directed course that allows you to proceed through the course curriculum at your own pace and your own timeline. The course is composed of four modules that consist of self-study course material, presentations, videos and short assignments. It will take approximately 10 to 12 hours to complete the course depending on your schedule.