Episode 17: Positive Approach to Care for People with Dementia by Teepa Snow, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA
In Episode 15, Teepa Snow introduces us to the Positive Approach to Care (PAC) for people with a changing brain. It was a delight to discuss Teepa’s model of care that focuses on the person’s intact abilities to promote increased quality of life and participation. Based on the Allen Cognitive Disability Model, Teepa developed the GEMS model to understand the dynamic nature of the human brain. “Rather than focusing on a person’s loss when there is brain change, seeing individuals as precious, unique, and capable encourages a care partnership…” Teepa's approach to care partner education and clinician training is accessible to everyone. Like, seriously, everyone.
Dig deeper with the following articles:
Armstrong, R. A. (2009). Alzheimer's disease and the eye. Journal of Optometry, 2(3), 103–111.
*These are direct links to PDF articles (AKA full access).
ALL THINGS TEEPA:
A wealth of information is on Teepa’s website. Here are some specific links to a few materials that we talked about on the episode:
Get a copy of The GEMS: Brain Change Model.
Watch a video of Teepa explaining her GEMS model in depth.
Free iBook: Practical Guide for Caregivers
Online learning - free and fee opportunities
Teepa has a YouTube Channel with an abundance of videos and demonstrations. Here are some videos on material Teepa talked about in the episode:
An excellent and brief newspaper article on Teepa’s work from the Courier. Provides a great introduction.
Music: Look Around by Twisterium