lilac flowers with sunshine | the DAWN Method

Three Caregiver Tips for Dementia That Prevent Hurt Feelings

Being a Dementia Partner It’s very important to remember that the person who is experiencing dementia may or may not be able to understand that it is their own abilities that are changing, and that even though their cognitive skills are becoming more limited, they are not becoming lesser beings. We can preserve their dignity … Read more

fence and weeds covered in snow and frost | the DAWN Method

Dementia and Not Recognizing Spouse or Family

Why do we expect them to know us? So often I talk with people who are upset because a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s no longer recognizes them or other family members. Most of us find this painful. If it’s our spouse with dementia who doesn’t recognize us it can be even more difficult … Read more

peach tulips | the DAWN Method

Give the Gift of Dignity in Dementia

How to help someone with dementia retain their sense of self A very important way to help our loved ones with dementia retain their sense of self is to give them opportunities to be kind and helpful. There is nothing more uplifting and effective at helping us feel better about ourselves than being able to … Read more

red begonia flowers | the DAWN Method

How to Enhance Conversations in Dementia

We can become storytellers for our loved ones who have dementia—recounting happy memories for them. When we do this we give them a valuable gift: an experience in the present of whom we know them to be, even though they cannot recall their own pasts. There is great comfort in knowing that you have experienced … Read more

snowdrop close-up | the DAWN Method

Become Their Memory – Tell Them Their Stories

At DAWN, we see ourselves as being both remembering selves and experiential selves. We know that people with healthy brains are able to both live in the present (experiencing what is happening in the moment) and also to use recall to remember and reflect on things that have happened in the past. We know that … Read more