Empowering Minds: Cornerstone Consulting's Dementia Support Programs

As we journey through life, we encounter challenges that may shape our path in unexpected ways. One of these formidable challenges is dementia, a condition that impacts the cognitive abilities of individuals, affecting memory, reasoning, and overall mental function. However, amidst the complexities of this condition, there are beacons of hope like Forget-Me-Not, under the umbrella of Cornerstone Consulting, dedicated to provide invaluable support to those grappling with the early stages of dementia. They champion a mission to empower individuals with dementia to preserve their cognitive capabilities in safe, collaborative and enjoyable environments. At the heart of their practice is the aim for individuals to actively partake in safe CST activities designed to stimulate the mind, nurture connection and ignite a sense of vitality which, in turn, motivates engagement in conversations and develops confidence.

One way in which we grow our beneficiary's confidence is to combine reminiscence therapy with world reality orientation - (we look at the past and compare it to the present).

Balancing reminiscence with present day reality is a powerful tool which increases a sense of self-worth and safety in the 'now'.

Reminiscence/Reality orientation is used to:

• tap in to long term memory [which sparks identity and felling of belonging and importance]

• both connects with who we were and celebrates who we are today [ enhancing confidence to contribute to the discussions, think optimistically about active life engagement now and in the future]

• includes the use of visual and tactile prompts, engaging the 5 senses to help bring memories and stories of self to life [feeling emotions encourages engagement]

Something as simple as:

? - what do you think these artefacts tell us about what holidays were link in the 50s/60s?

? - if you were to go on holiday today, what would you like to do?

?  - would you rather go on a holiday now or in the 50's/60's etc?