Title: Treatment of dementia symptoms: a person-centred approach

Biography:

Laurie Gunter Mantz is an Occupational Therapist, a Certified Dementia Trainer, and the founder of Dementia Training for Life, LLC, an organization that specializes in the training of healthcare professionals on the care of those with neurodegenerative disorders. With more than 30 yrs. of clinical and educational experience Laurie’s concentration is now to facilitate dementia capable care from the home, supported care, hospitals and LTC to enable independence and quality of life throughout the life spectrum.

Abstract

According to the Oxford dictionary, the definition of purpose is “the reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists.” Every person, despite illness, disability or age needs purpose. Humans need a reason to “be”, and that purpose is as unique and significant as every single being, even with dementia.

Despite the lack of success in discovering disease modifying medications, behavioral science has shown significant advances in addressing many of the symptoms of neurodegenerative conditions, improving quality of life, reducing the use of antipsychotic medications, and advancing person-centered care throughout the disease process. The keys to a rewarding, happy and purposeful life, while learning to accommodate to the changes from a brain disorder, require an educated support system, an environment adapted to meet the individual’s needs, the use of verbal and non-verbal communication, and flexible care providers.

This presentation will demonstrate the benefits of non-pharmacological interventions in all areas of life and care, from the home to the hospital, for those living with and caring for neurodegenerative conditions.