There is hope for those with dementia who depend on the care we provide. Providing empowered, person-centred care for dementia means looking at the whole person and working on what they can do, rather than focusing on what dementia takes away. People with dementia are losing rational thinking, but not losing their intuitive vision (being in the moment, enjoying beauty, listening to music, etc.). Stress is reduced for people with dementia and caregivers if their peers and caregivers are taught how to support their strengths. of Dementia, a message shared by Jill Couch, MS, a licensed occupational therapist, certified DAWN dementia specialist, and founder of Better People Care, with six rural eastern counties.
Dementia is a decline in brain function that differs from normal aging. Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other thinking skills severe enough to interfere with daily life. It also affects behavior, emotions, and the ability to process information using the rational part of the brain. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. Although there is currently no medical cure, there is a great need to improve the care and support provided to people with dementia and their caregivers.
Jill has the privilege of being a DAWN Dementia Care Specialist and DAWN Trainer and can bring hope and support to people with dementia and their families. She had the idea to become a dementia care specialist after her grandmother survived Alzheimer’s disease without receiving the care of a dementia specialist. When Jill has the privilege of giving her family even the tiniest glimpse of the DAWN Method, it’s as if they’re going to take a deep breath for the first time in a really long time.
Created by Judy Cornish, The DAWN Method ® is a compassionate, empowerment-based, person-centered approach to caring for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Helping families, caregivers and working health professionals expand their comfort zone. The DAWN Method® provides an opportunity to learn specific tools related to mood management, safety in confusion and care, social success, a sense of control, value, and a secure future.
Families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in learning more and supporting those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias, grab lunch and visit 508 S 10th We encourage you to join Jill in person at one of the Logan County CSU Extension Offices. Ave #1, Sterling, CO 80751 11:00 am – 1:00 pm or join us on Zoom. The series begins on his Monday, April 3rd, continues every Monday, and ends on May 22nd. Cost: $20/session ($160 total), first 25 paid registrations, plus regular fee of $50/session ($400 total). Registrant: Eventbrite: https://DAWN-Training.eventbrite.com (Scan the QR code below) Or call Joy Akey at 970-332-4151 in Yuma County.
CSU Extension continues to work with community partners to raise awareness and funds that can help reduce costs for those struggling to find support and resources. Because dementia is affecting several families in rural eastern Colorado, we hope to continue to provide educational resources, training, and support to caregivers. If you would like to help with the cause, please contact your local family and consumer science extension specialist. Phillips County – Stephanie Starkebaum (970-854-3616), Logan County – Jaci Wagner (970-522-3200), Yuma County – Joy Akey (970-332-4151), Washington County – Anne Mason (970-345-2287), Morgan County – Katie Thielhoff (970-542-3540), Kit Carson County – McKayla Stephen (719- 346-5571).
