A strength-based approach focuses on strengths and abilities, rather than their limitations and problems. The Pointe at Lifespring in Knoxville, TN, uses this approach and combines it with ideas from the latest scientific principles so those with Alzheimer's and dementia have an excellent quality of life in our community.
According to the Alzheimer's Association, there are over 7 million Americans who have Alzheimer's, and by 2050, this will rise to almost 13 million. It can be a disheartening disease to witness in your loved ones, as it can erase not only their memories but also their personalities.
While there's no cure for dementia, there are ways to slow its progression and preserve cognitive function. Here's what a strength-based approach can do for your beloved seniors in Knoxville, TN.
The strength-based approach in care focuses on identifying, developing, and utilizing a person's existing:
This is a huge departure from concentrating solely on their limitations or problems. It may not sound like much at first glance, but it can make a significant difference in the caregiver-patient relationship.
For instance, it encourages caregivers to recognize the person's:
This can promote senior empowerment and self-determination, as it turns the usual approach of viewing care recipients as passive or dependent into an approach that sees them as active participants in their own care journey.
Essentially, this approach emphasizes what individuals can do! As a result, this fosters a positive relationship between caregivers and patients, which can enhance self-esteem and lead to better overall well-being.
The strength-based approach to care is broad, which means it can be applied to dementia care philosophy as well.
The approach is essentially still the same: the caregivers focus on the person's abilities rather than the abilities lost.
What's great about this approach is that it recognizes that people with dementia still have:
These can all be nurtured through supportive care.
The strength-based approach is used to tailor interactions and activities, as they'll pick what the person can still enjoy or accomplish. For example, this may be music, art, or simple daily tasks.
This means that seniors can still maintain a sense of dignity, identity, and purpose. This leads to better emotional outcomes for everyone involved.
If you're looking for memory care in Knoxville that uses a strength-based approach, then you've got it with The Pointe at Lifespring. These are the ways we focus on person-centered aging.
Just because older adults have dementia doesn't necessarily mean they can't have independence and privacy. We have two versions of The Alice Bell Suite on our premises; one is a private suite and the other is a friendship suite.
Our apartments are designed to be senior-friendly, allowing those with dementia to live relatively autonomously while still receiving much-needed care. There are no kitchenettes, and there are weekly housekeeping and linen services, so you don't have to worry about chores or hazards/dangers in the apartment.
Daily life in memory care here is excellent, and this is thanks to our strength-based approach. Our SHINE® Memory Care program has received a National Certificate of Recognition from the Alzheimer's Association®, which shows how effective it is.
This is because we use the latest scientific principles to improve the quality of life for our residents. Our Alzheimer's support highlights milestones and successes, and we never focus on their limitations.
In addition, the activities we choose for our residents are purpose-driven, meaning that they cater to individuals' abilities. Our games are failure-free and non-competitive, which encourages residents to participate and keep up with cognitive skills.
Mealtime is a delight as well. There are delicious and nutritious gourmet meals, and we keep the meal routine at the same time each day to provide stability and predictability.
There are 6 key principles of a strengths-based approach that shift care from a deficit-based model to one centered on capability and resilience. They are:
When older adults experience these things in memory care, it will bring about growth and independence. They'll also have a higher sense of self-worth.
The four pillars of strengths-based care are foundational elements for giving compassionate and empowering support. They are:
This care model highlights potential over problems, and it focuses on what gives seniors meaning and fulfillment in their daily lives.
A strengths-based approach is effective since it shifts the care experience from dependency to empowerment. Older adults feel more valued and motivated, and their overall satisfaction will improve.
There are benefits for caregivers, too. Because there's a deeper understanding and more empathy, this reduces frustration and even burnout.
All too often, seniors with dementia are confused and scared in daily situations. So instead of highlighting their weaknesses, we use a strength-based approach to bring out the best in them.
When you focus on older adults' strengths and abilities, this makes them feel empowered. And as a result, they'll have a better quality of life and their well-being will soar.
At The Pointe at Lifespring, we provide convenient amenities for our residents to live relaxing lives, such as a salon, outdoor courtyard, and a cute cafe. Contact us today if you want to hear more about memory care in Knoxville, TN.