California Partnership for Improved Dementia Care and Other Resources for Dementia Care
When I wander don’t tell me to come and sit down. Wander with me. It may be because I am hungry, thirsty, need the toilet. Or maybe I just need to stretch my legs. When I call for my mother (even though I’m ninety!) don’t tell me she has died. Reassure me, cuddle me, ask me about her. It may be that I am looking for the security that my mother once gave me. When I shout out please don’t ask me to be quiet…or walk by. I am trying to tell you something, but have difficulty in telling you what. Be patient. Try to find out. I may be in pain. When I become agitated or appear angry, please don’t reach for the drugs first. I am trying to tell you something. It may be too hot, too bright, too noisy. Or maybe it’s because I miss my loved ones. Try to find out first. When I don’t eat my dinner or drink my tea it may be because I’ve forgotten how to. Show me what to do, remind me. It may be that I just need to hold my knife and fork I may know what to do then. When I push you away while you’re trying to help me wash or get dressed, maybe it’s because I have forgotten what you have said. Keep telling me what you are doing over and over and over. Maybe others will think you’re the one that needs the help! With all my thoughts and maybes, perhaps it will be you who reaches my thoughts, understands my fears, and will make me feel safe. Maybe it will be you who I need to thank. If only I knew how.
Source: Dementia poem (nhs.wales)
2021 Resources
Video 1: Best practices in Dementia Care
» Download Handouts (PDF)
» Download Slides (PPT)
Video 2: Dementia: What is it?
» Download Handouts (PDF)
» Download Slides (PPT)
Video 3: Individualized Assessment and Care planning for Persons with Dementia
» Download Handouts (PDF)
» Download Slides (PPT)
Video 4: Nonpharmacological Interventions for Dementia Care
» Download Handout (PDF)
» Download Slides (PPT)
2020 Resources
Video 1: Activities for Patients with Dementia: Creative Ideas During COVID-19
» Download Handouts (PDF)
Video 2: Coping and Stress Management During a Pandemic
» Download Handouts (PDF)
Video 3: COVID-19 Tips for Reducing Emotional Distress in Patients with Dementia
» Download Handouts (PDF)
Video 4: How to Reduce Wandering in Patients with Dementia
» Download Handout (PDF)
Video 5: Optimizing Dementia Care in the Era of COVID-19
» Download Handouts (PDF)
Video 6: Optimizing Person Centered and Family Dementia Care in the Era of COVID-19
» Download Handouts (PDF)
Prepared by the California Partnership for Improved Dementia Care, under the leadership of Jennifer Birdsall, PhD. ABPP, Chief Clinical Officer with CHE Behavioral Health Services, Inc. and hosted by the Health Services Advisory Group [HSAG]
These videos provide practical and up-to-date information on dementia care best practices and serve as an excellent educational tool for direct care and executive staff.