The sessions utilise the approach of Montessorian principles. The teaching method and philosophy of education that Dr. Montessori developed at the turn of the 20th century in Rome is based on the use of the five senses and on the use of procedural or muscle memory. Maria Montessori believed in respecting and honouring the spirit of each person, whether the person is three years old or 83 years old, and when engaged in activity progressing from concrete to abstract - these are a key focus of IGNITE SESSIONS. Montessori-based methods provide stimulation and engagement, focusing on a person’s individual strengths rather than their weaknesses, and provide a supportive environment.
Dr Cameron Camp, who has been researching Montessori for dementia in America for 10 years, seized upon the idea that by finding the person behind the dementia, caregivers can find clues about how to strengthen their brain function – or at least slow the decline. Rediscovering the person behind the disease is the focus of the IGNITE SESSIONS. Memories are not all gone. We aim to elicit what still exists and capitalise on it, enhancing the quality of life. Facilitation of the workshops is therefore key. The technique that has been developed also encourages reminiscence and socialisation for older people.
We resist seeing too many parallels between young children and people with dementia so as not to infantilise anyone, but the approach is effective due to its’ simplicity. When working with children you think of the needs of the child – what he likes to do, what he is able to do. You don’t challenge too much as it will leave him feeling frustrated and he will give up. But as he achieves, you make it a little harder so he can improve. These same principles apply to those living with dementia. The Montessori method offers a way of reducing the sense of isolation, anger and frustration, which accompanies the different forms of the disease.
This non-pharmacological approach aims to improve the quality of life for people with dementia.
Dr Cameron Camp, who has been researching Montessori for dementia in America for 10 years, seized upon the idea that by finding the person behind the dementia, caregivers can find clues about how to strengthen their brain function – or at least slow the decline. Rediscovering the person behind the disease is the focus of the IGNITE SESSIONS. Memories are not all gone. We aim to elicit what still exists and capitalise on it, enhancing the quality of life. Facilitation of the workshops is therefore key. The technique that has been developed also encourages reminiscence and socialisation for older people.
We resist seeing too many parallels between young children and people with dementia so as not to infantilise anyone, but the approach is effective due to its’ simplicity. When working with children you think of the needs of the child – what he likes to do, what he is able to do. You don’t challenge too much as it will leave him feeling frustrated and he will give up. But as he achieves, you make it a little harder so he can improve. These same principles apply to those living with dementia. The Montessori method offers a way of reducing the sense of isolation, anger and frustration, which accompanies the different forms of the disease.
This non-pharmacological approach aims to improve the quality of life for people with dementia.