#workingwithdementia

😑 this time of year im daily changing tables and pallet settings

just a few areas of what we/i do. somedays it’s like working with the pink panther and im the inspector - i will be moving something on a cart while my helper moves it back to the same spot i just moved it from…

i try to find humor in it, tho it can be very exhausting

Every morning here in Baguio City, I'd pass by a familiar sight—a sweet elderly lady strolling slowly in the park with her nurse, Shiela. Day by day, it became part of my routine, and something always drew me toward them.

One day, moved by instinct, I decided to donate one of our Therababy dolls to her, hoping it might brighten her days a little. Soon after, though, they disappeared from their usual spot. Days passed, and my heart felt heavy. Was she okay?

And then last week, I finally saw them again—and my heart soared! The elderly lady had the biggest, brightest smile on her face, clutching the Therababy doll tightly. Nurse Shiela excitedly told me how the doll changed everything—the elderly lady had recently battled pneumonia, terrified of needles, but the doll became her comfort and companion, soothing her anxiety and easing her fear.

https://www.qmul.ac.uk/media/news/2024/fmd/dementia-training-programme-created-by-queen-mary-researchers-hailed-as-example-of-best-practice-by-new-alzheimers-society-report.html

The NIDUS-Family program, developed by researchers at Queen Mary University of London, stands out as an exemplary model in dementia care. This initiative provides targeted training and support to home care workers, focusing on practical strategies tailored to the unique needs of individuals with dementia. Recognized by the Alzheimer's Society as a best practice example, NIDUS-Family highlights the critical importance of mandatory dementia training for care workers to enhance the quality of care.

Similarly, the success of therapeutic interventions such as doll therapy depends on adequate training and support for caregivers. One innovative approach in this domain is our TheraBaby® Dolls, which leverages doll therapy to offer comfort and engagement to individuals in the mid to late stages of dementia. By providing lifelike dolls to patients, this method taps into nurturing instincts, helping to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, and social withdrawal.

Benefits of Doll Therapy

Research underscores the numerous positive impacts of doll therapy for dementia patients:

Emotional Comfort: Interaction with a doll can offer a profound sense of purpose and companionship, reducing feelings of loneliness. Many patients show increased smiling and exhibit a calmer demeanor when engaging with a doll. (Source: Verywell Health)

Behavioral Improvements: Doll therapy has been linked to reduced agitation and wandering behaviors, creating a more tranquil environment for both patients and caregivers. (Source: Dementia UK)

Enhanced Communication: The presence of a doll often stimulates conversation and social interaction, enabling patients to express themselves more freely and meaningfully.

A Holistic Approach to Dementia Care

We are happy to collaborate with St. Vincent de Paul House for the Poor Foundation, Inc., a team of caring individuals who are dedicated to sharing their blessings—whether through their time, skills, or resources—with the less fortunate elders in the Philippines. Their work is focused on providing shelter, care, and compassion to seniors who might otherwise be forgotten.

We hoped each TheraBaby® doll would be a comforting presence and companion in times of loneliness. Each donation is a reminder that our senior citizens suffering from dementia are still valued, remembered, and cherished.

The Foundation stands out not only for its service but also for the incredible kindness and commitment of those involved. Volunteers and donors pour their hearts into their work, ensuring that each resident feels at home. By providing essentials, medical care, and a safe place to call home, they give the gift of dignity to the elderly members of their community. Every day, the Foundation reminds us of the value of human connection and community support.

We hope that this gesture brings joy and comfort to the residents and inspires others to give what they can to the St. Vincent de Paul House for the Poor Foundation. Together, we can bring hope and kindness to those who have given so much to the world and now need our support.

In supporting the Foundation’s mission, we are adding to the circle of compassion, ensuring that every individual feels the love, dignity, and respect they deserve. Every bit helps, and every hand extended is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Purple Angel October Walk 2024: Raising Awareness for Dementia

On October 5, 2024, the Purple Angel Global Dementia Awareness Movement held an inspiring event—the October Walk at SM MOA Seaside. Participants from all walks of life came together to support this crucial cause, proudly donning their purple shirts and walking in solidarity with the global fight against dementia.

The event, organized in collaboration with several supportive organizations including TheraBaby and many others, aimed to raise awareness about dementia and its impact on individuals and their families. The atmosphere was filled with hope and camaraderie as advocates, caregivers, and supporters joined forces to show their commitment to dementia care and research.

With the scenic view of Manila Bay as the backdrop, the walk not only highlighted the importance of dementia awareness but also provided a platform for education and community support. The Purple Angel movement continues to bring attention to the needs of those living with dementia, while also honoring the caregivers and families who support them.