Understanding Dementia: Insights from Teepa Snow

Join Andy Baker on the Able to Care Podcast as he sits down with Teepa Snow, one of the world’s foremost dementia care educators, to explore practical techniques for compassionate caregiving.

Teepa shares insights from her renowned Positive Approach to Care model, offering strategies that help caregivers connect meaningfully, respond to behavioural challenges, and support individuals with dignity and respect. This episode is packed with actionable advice for caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals working with those living with dementia. 🎧

Resources Mentioned: Carer’s Card UK (Sponsor): Enjoy exclusive discounts, wellbeing resources, and tools designed to support carers across the UK. Learn more at Carer’s Card UK. Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care: Find videos, training, and resources to enhance dementia care at teepasnow.com.

Key Messages:

1. Building Connection Through Positive Approach Techniques Teepa introduces the Hand-Under-Hand technique to foster trust and mutual respect in caregiving relationships. This approach transforms caregiving into a partnership rather than a task.

2. Recognising and Preventing Burnout Caregivers must prioritise their wellbeing to sustain high-quality care. Teepa shares tips for recognising burnout and finding moments of joy in caregiving.

3. Proactive Care Planning for Dementia Progression Teepa stresses the importance of planning ahead and building relationships early to adapt effectively to the changing needs of individuals living with dementia.

Episode Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 - Introduction Andy introduces this episode’s sponsor, Carer’s Card UK, and the benefits of the programme.

• 00:02:00 - Welcome and Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care Andy introduces Teepa and her pioneering work in dementia care.

• 00:04:15 - What Makes Dementia Care Different? Teepa explains the unique challenges of supporting individuals with dementia and how caregivers can adapt.

• 00:08:30 - Understanding Behavioural Changes in Dementia Insights into interpreting behaviours as communication and responding with empathy.

• 00:12:45 - The Hand-Under-Hand Technique A step-by-step guide to Teepa’s foundational caregiving tool, fostering connection and collaboration.

• 00:18:10 - Preventing Caregiver Burnout Teepa shares practical self-care tips and strategies for staying resilient in caregiving roles.

• 00:23:30 - Adapting to Changing Needs in Dementia Progression The importance of proactive planning and building trust early in the caregiving relationship.

• 00:29:00 - Resources for Dementia Care Teepa highlights free and paid tools available through Positive Approach to Care to support caregivers.

• 00:31:00 - Responding to Distress and De-escalation Techniques How to calmly address and de-escalate situations when individuals with dementia become upset or agitated.

• 00:37:00 - The Role of Environment in Dementia Care Teepa discusses how lighting, noise, and furniture placement can influence behaviours and comfort levels.

• 00:43:00 - Finding Moments of Joy in Dementia Care Practical tips for creating joyful moments that benefit both caregivers and those they support.

• 00:48:00 - Breaking Down Common Caregiving Myths Teepa debunks misconceptions about dementia care and highlights the importance of empathy and flexibility.

• 00:52:00 - Final Advice and Key Takeaways Teepa wraps up with her core message: focus on what remains, not what’s lost, in dementia care.

• 00:54:00 - Closing Remarks Andy encourages listeners to explore Teepa’s resources and shares how to stay connected with the Able to Care Podcast.

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