Course Description:

Developed in the early 20th century, the Montessori method of teaching holds that when you’re working with individuals, you must consider their needs and capabilities in concert. What do they like to do? What are they able to do? The focus is not on challenging the individual, but instead taking the task a little beyond the comfort zone so individuals still have the opportunity to learn and improve. The Montessori method of caregiving has a very similar goal: engaging the senses in order to help Alzheimer’s and dementia patients and loved ones rediscover the world around them. In this course, participants will learn about the Montessori principles of independence according to one’s ability and the benefits of the prepared environment. Specifically, participants will learn about the fundamental principles of the Montessori method, how to conduct a Montessori-based session, Montessori-based steps to engagement that reduce unwanted behaviors, issues that may arise with this approach, and using case studies and video examples, how to set up activities/tasks for individuals with dementia using a Montessori Approach.