Montessori-Based Dementia Programming

Montessori-Based Dementia Programming (MBDP) is a method of working with older adults living with cognitive and/or physical impairments based on the ideas of the educator Maria Montessori. It has been shown to increase levels of engagement and participation in activities of persons with dementia. While it can not cure or prevent Alzheimer's disease, it has been shown to generally improve many aspects of the quality of life of those who have it.

Principles
Montessori-Based Dementia Programming uses rehabilitation principles including guided repetition, task breakdown, and progressing from simple to complex. Additionally, principles of dementia interventions such as external cue usage and reliance on implicit memory are used. Examples of activities include reading groups and memory games.

Where is it used?
This method of helping persons with dementia and other memory impairments has been shown to be effective in a number of different contexts, including long-term care, assisted living, independent living and home-based care. It is also used in intergenerational programming where older adults with memory impairments and young children participate together in Montessori-based activities.

Who uses it?
Montessori-based Dementia Programming is primarily used by recreational therapists and activities professionals.

History
MBDP has been researched for over ten years by Dr. Cameron Camp (the creator of MBDP) and the staff of the Myers Research Institute.

Recognition
MBDP received the Excellence in Research and Education Award from the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (AAHSA). The creators of MBDP also received the 2004 Healthcare and Aging Award given by the American Society on Aging (ASA).

The science behind this work has been best described in scientific articles and trade journals, ranging from The Gerontologist to Activity Director's Quarterly and from Caring (the magazine of the National Association for Home Care) to Topics in Geriatric Rehab. It has also been featured in a story in the AARP Bulletin.