Presentation Catalog

Hope vs. Despair 

This inspirational presentation will provide insight into a major paradigm shift taking place in the field of dementia care: the realization that every care partner has the opportunity and the responsibility to make a positive difference in the lives of persons living with memory challenges.  The presentation will discuss evidence-based strategies that enable persons living with all stages of memory loss to continue to learn, achieve, and give back to their community.  

For over two decades, the Hearthstone Institute has been a catalyst in shifting the prevailing “despair narrative” into one aimed at providing a life worth living for people who are experiencing the challenges associated with dementia:  the “Hope Model”. Citing examples from providers internationally, this presentation offers insight into what can be achieved when employing strategies that encourage people living with cognitive challenges to continue to be a part of their community, contributing to their living a meaningful, purposeful life regardless of the severity of their memory loss.  

Innovations: Groundbreaking Programs for Persons Living with Dementia 

This presentation explores three innovative initiatives for improving the quality of life for persons with memory challenges developed by the Hearthstone Research Team: Life’s a Stage: The ScriptedIMPROV Project™; The Learning for Life Academy™; and “It Takes a Village / ARTZ ©”.  All three of these programs are groundbreaking innovations that support quality of life, dignity, and self-actualization for persons living with the challenges of dementia and their families.  The initiatives are supported by over 20 years of research conducted by Hearthstone’s world-renowned research team and other leaders in the field of non-pharmacologic interventions for persons living with dementia.

Let’s get Engaged!  I’m Still Here® Activity Experiences for Persons with Dementia 

This presentation offers an introduction to the basic principles of Hearthstone’s I’m Still Here® approach, an innovative method of providing meaningful and engaging programming to persons living with memory challenges.  This informative presentation discusses Hearthstone’s learning methodology, the role Memory Systems play in creating effective programming and skills-based approaches to program design. Founded in over 25 years of research, this methodology has been shown to significantly increase levels of engagement, participation, satisfaction, success and quality of life for persons living with memory challenges.

That’s a good question! 

Those who care for persons living with dementia know that positive relationships begin with good communication skills.  In order for care partners to continue to have successful interactions throughout the disease process, it is critical that they learn to adapt their communication style so that they do not unintentionally cause anxiety or confusion. In this presentation, we will discuss Hearthstone’s research-based, field-tested communication techniques, with a special focus on asking questions, facilitating conversations, and the utilization of verbal /non-verbal communication styles.  Attendees will learn practical communication tips to facilitate better communication and how to adapt these techniques as persons age through the dementia journey. 

You have the P.O.W.E.R.™:  How to create successful non-pharmacologic interventions for the most common challenging behaviors associated with Dementia 

This presentation instructs and inspires participants on how to create successful interventions for the most common challenging behaviors associated with dementia using an assessment tool called P.O.W.E.R.™.   Using case studies drawn from real-life experiences at Hearthstone, we debunk common myths, examine potential triggers, and discuss action plans that provide caregivers with strategies designed to reduce or eliminate these behaviors. 

The Art of Engagement:  Creating Cultural Experiences for Persons Living with Dementia

In this presentation, we explore the relationship between cultural experiences and dementia and show how art has the ability to create enhanced engagement and revive emotional memories for persons living with memory challenges.  We will discuss ways in which the artistic experience – both creating and viewing art – can be used to foster a “sense of self” among participants. The discussion will also include ways to use artistic intervention as a treatment for the symptoms of dementia, leading to greater access to cultural opportunities and increased quality of life.

The Dynamics of Memory and Aging

There is much more to memory than merely short-term and long-term retrieval.   Emotional and spiritual memories are interwoven with our personalities, and when accessed, allow for a greater connection to our community and ourselves.  This is especially true for those living with memory challenges. During this presentation, we will discuss memory systems, brain vitality, and ways to strengthen “memory muscles” and possibly delay the onset of dementia through exercise, cognitive stimulation, and nutrition.   

Friends for Life

This presentation focuses on ways to build successful, positive relationships with people who are living with dementia, including communication techniques and strategies for reducing challenging behaviors.  It is designed for family members, friends, professionals, or anyone caring for a person with memory impairment.  Whether the person is living at home or in a Long Term Health Care setting, simple techniques will be discussed that can enable participants to have more positive, fulfilling interactions.

Understanding Alzheimer ’s Disease: An Overview

This presentation is designed to provide attendees with a basic understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and related types of dementia.  Topics that will be discussed include types of dementia, the stages of dementia and the common symptoms associated with each stage, causes of dementia—both reversible and non-reversible, common warning signs, and resources available to assist families who are living with this challenge.