Dementia is a debilitating condition that affects an individual’s cognitive ability and leads to memory loss, behavioral changes, and communication difficulties.
Communication is crucial in providing care and support to seniors living with dementia, as it helps to maintain their dignity and improve their quality of life.
For those who struggle to communicate with their loved ones or those they are caregiving for, Positive Approach to Care™ (PAC) can help overcome communication barriers.
PAC is a holistic approach that can help break down communication barriers and promote better communication for those living with dementia.
Learn more about the Positive Approach to Care™, PAC methods and tips, and where to find a senior living community that implements PAC into their caregiving services.
What is Positive Approach to Care™?
Positive Approach to Care™ was developed by Teepa Snow, an occupational therapist with over 40 years of clinical experience.
The approach focuses on understanding the perspective of individuals with dementia, acknowledging their emotions, and adapting to their needs.
The PAC approach emphasizes building positive relationships with seniors with dementia and their caregivers by promoting communication, empathy, and respect.
Guiding principles
The PAC approach is based on the following six guiding principles:
- Positive physical approach
- Person-centered care
- Positive emotional connections
- Hand-under-hand technique
- Positive reinforcement
- Care partner support
Positive Approach to Care™ has gained widespread recognition and adoption in the healthcare community, including The Kensington Senior Living Communities.
It’s been shown to reduce agitation and aggression and enhance the overall quality of life for seniors with dementia and their caregivers.
Positive Approach to Care™ methods
The PAC approach uses various methods to promote effective communication, empathy, and respect.
Some of the most commonly used PAC methods include the following.
Positive physical approach
The positive physical approach means that you’re only approaching seniors with dementia in a friendly and non-threatening manner. This can involve using nonverbal cues such as a smile, a gentle touch, and eye contact to establish a positive connection.
Hand-under-hand technique
The hand-under-hand technique is a gentle way of guiding and assisting individuals with dementia with daily activities such as eating, grooming, and dressing.
Team members will place their hand under the senior’s hand or arm, providing support while allowing the senior to maintain some control. This technique is also a way to provide physical support while minimizing the risk of injury or discomfort.
Person-centered care
Person-centered care involves understanding the senior’s perspective and adapting care to meet their individual needs and preferences. It involves respecting a senior’s autonomy, dignity, and privacy. Their conditions are not the only things that define them as a person.
Reminiscence therapy
This involves discussing memories and experiences with them. It can help stimulate the senior’s memory recall and promote social interaction.
Positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement involves providing positive feedback and reinforcement to seniors with dementia to promote their sense of self-worth and improve their quality of life.
Music therapy
Music therapy involves using music to promote emotional and cognitive well-being. It can help reduce anxiety and agitation and improve communication and social interaction.
Validation therapy
This involves acknowledging the senior’s feelings and emotions, even if they are not based on reality. This can also help reduce anxiety and agitation and promote a sense of self-worth.
By focusing on building positive relationships and understanding the perspective of seniors with dementia, the PAC approach can enhance the quality of life and help seniors age in place in a senior living community.
Tips for Positive Approach to Care™
The Kensington Senior Living Communities are proud to use PAC methods as it benefits both our residents and our team members. Below is a list of practical tips to help caregivers implement the PAC approach and break down communication barriers.
Speak slowly and clearly
Dementia residents may find it difficult to process information quickly, so speaking slowly and clearly can help them understand what is being said.
Use simple language
Complex language or medical jargon can confuse and frustrate residents. Instead, use simple language that will help them understand the point you’re trying to convey.
Maintain eye contact
Maintaining eye contact during communication can help establish a connection and show respect.
Use nonverbal cues
Nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice can convey emotions and help seniors understand the message.
Be patient
Seniors may take longer to process information and respond to questions. Be patient and allow time for a response to help avoid frustration and promote effective communication.
Avoid arguing or correcting
Dementia residents may become confused or forgetful, and correcting them can cause frustration and upset them. Instead, try redirecting the conversation or focusing on positive aspects.
Use reminiscence therapy
Reminiscence therapy involves discussing the resident’s memories and experiences. Not only does this help their recall but it promotes social interaction. Residents often just want someone to talk to.
A community where residents and team members feel like family
Kensington Senior Living Communities were designed for residents to age in place, so they don’t need to move as their needs change.
Our Promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own, and we extend that promise to our team members as well.
Our communities have been designed beautifully and staffed with the most professional and empathic healthcare professionals.
When you join our team, you can grow personally and professionally in a supportive and peaceful environment.
Some of the benefits we offer our team include:
- Competitive salaries
- Health, life, 401K, & other benefits starting at 32 hrs/wk
- Generous paid time off
- Employee assistance program
- Complimentary lunches & dinners
Check out our blog to learn more about our communities, services, events, and volunteer positions.
Contact a team manager to discuss employment opportunities and start your healthcare career with a team that feels like family.