Montessori for Dementia and Ageing
“Montessori brings such a peaceful and joyful approach to what others believe to be the saddest stage of life. I wanted to learn more and be able to share it with others.” – Lillian Díaz Bras, M.A., CCC-SLP
The Montessori Concept
The person-centered approach, the prepared environment, freedom of movement, choice, beauty and order, finding purpose… so many beautiful concepts that can be applied, not only when working with a specific population, but to our daily lives and communities.
The Montessori philosophy was created in the early 1900’s by Dr. María Montessori, Italian physician and educator. The methodology nourishes curiosity, creativity, and independence. All while resting on pillars of grace and courtesy.
Montessori for dementia and ageing is a person-centered approach to care, where treating the individual with respect and dignity is a mainstay. In order to achieve that, providing a meaningful engagement in a prepared environment is of paramount importance.
The Prepared Environment
Having a prepared environment contributes to a sense of calm and order. The environment can enable or interfere with a person’s ability to explore, develop, and use their capacities and talents. The Montessori prepared environment showcases the beauty and functionality that exists when things are in order and easily accessible.
This approach not only makes activities and materials more inviting, but it also facilitates the individual to move freely and select what she wants to work with. The environment should be attractive through its simplicity and organization. When things are in order around us, it helps our internal feelings of order and security. Organization can help bring calm and peace.
Joy and Tranquility, Grace and Courtesy
Joy, tranquility and order are attributes that help us live in harmony. They apply to all humankind. Elders experience happiness and serenity when treated with grace and courtesy, and when such behavior is modeled around them. Our ageing population deserves joy and tranquility. We all do regardless of age.
The Montessori philosophy also promotes independence. It contributes to a person’s sense of purpose, self-respect, and self-esteem. If we provide a prepared environment where individuals can move freely, and materials are beautifully organized and easily accessible, individuals will be able to engage with them independently.
This is the ultimate goal of a Montessori guide and a speech language pathologist for the aging population and people living with cognitive decline or cognitive communication challenges:
to help them be as independent as possible in daily living and in activities that interest them.
This person-centered approach to care provides a sense of belonging and purpose.
“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”
– Benjamin Franklin
People living with cognitive decline CAN learn. Invite them to do something with you. Show them and then let them try it. It will mean the world to them.
Therapies and Plans
Individualized therapies and plans that focus on language and cognitive skills in those living with dementia
Coaching and Strategies
Coaching services and strategies to help caregivers better serve the person living with dementia
Montessori for Dementia
Research-based practices such as Montessori for Dementia and person-centered care
Keep in Touch
I would love to hear from you. Let's discuss how we can help you and your loved one live better with cognitive decline and other dementias. Together, we can create a better culture of care for elders and people with dementia.
Reach Us
Located in
Dorado, Puerto Rico
787-461-8455
lillian@diazbras.com