June 28, 2024
An Engagement Plan captures significant details, events, and memories from a person’s life in a personalized narrative. It helps caregivers, family members, and healthcare professionals understand and connect with an individual on a deeper level. By creating an Engagement Plan, we improve the quality of care, making it more person-centered. Personal information enhances communication, providing comfort and a sense of identity for individuals with dementia.
At The Kentridge Senior Living, we gather this information as soon as possible, before a resident moves into our Memory Care Neighborhood. As dementia progresses, it often becomes more difficult for residents to communicate their wants, needs, and wishes. These plans help us meet their desires throughout their dementia journey.
An Engagement Plan is a document that tells us all about your loved one. It includes information about their physical abilities and delves into their interests and preferences, such as favorite pets, music tastes, prior occupations, and significant memories.
The Engagement Plan is not just a document; it is a voice for someone living with dementia. As the condition progresses, it becomes increasingly challenging to articulate wants, needs, interests, and context in a conversation. With a comprehensive plan on file, our staff can learn about an individual and how to best engage with them. This includes knowing their favorite foods and beverages, the names of family members, and the best way to approach them if they are upset. In essence, the Engagement Plan ensures that the resident’s voice is heard, even when they may no longer be able to express themselves clearly.
One of the best ways to prepare for the future care of a loved one with dementia is to learn everything you can about them. Understanding your loved one’s past and present routines will help you advocate for their best care. Our team aims to care for your loved one however they prefer, but we need detailed information to do so effectively. Knowing their routines, likes, and dislikes is essential. Asking your loved one questions and making observations now can significantly impact their future care. If your loved one enjoys writing, memory journals can also be a great way to gather and preserve this information.
Start now to prepare for your future and/or the future of your loved ones. Provide detailed information about your background, history, likes, and dislikes. Include what makes you happy, sad, and fearful. Mention any special things that bring you joy and comfort. These Engagement Plans improve caregiving, aid in emotional comfort, and facilitate communication. They also enable those around you to honor your life and ensure you receive personalized and compassionate care. You can find free templates online at legacyproject.org and crisisprevention.com.
The KentRidge Senior Living in Kent, OH offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near University Hospital Portage Medical Center with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Sunny Hill Golf & Recreation Inc, Stow-Kent Shopping Center, Kent State Univeristy Museum, The Portage Hike & Bike Trail, and Mad Cap Brewing Company.
