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 Castlewood 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 thoughtfully written, individualized profile of each resident. It includes important background information and history, such as who their parents were and what they did, the resident’s occupation, favorite foods, special pets, and favorite vacation locations.
These plans are important because they provide crucial information about who the resident is and what they like. When a resident is in distress, we can refer to the Engagement Plan to engage them in discussions about topics they enjoy, which can help de-escalate the situation.
If you have a loved one with dementia, you can start preparing now by asking them questions about their childhood and favorite memories. Take notes on their responses. Who they are now may not fully reflect who they once were, and their memory may fade further, causing them to relive their childhood experiences. Having this crucial information allows us to connect with them in their reality, no matter where that may be.
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 Castlewood Senior Living in Nixa, MO 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 Cox Medical Center South and with convenient access to major shopping centers, including Fremont Hills Country Club, Fountain Plaza, Smallin Civil War Cave, 160 Grand Prix Amusement Center, and the 4 X 4 Brewery-Fremont.
