The Montessori Method and Alzheimer’s

The Montessori Method was developed by Maria Montessori, MD., PhD, over one hundred years ago as a tool to teach children who had learning disabilities. This method was very successful because it is based on muscle memory. Muscle memory is that part of the memory that is used in repetitive muscle movement, for example in remembering how to ride a bike, play a musical instrument or read. Muscle memory (sometimes called procedural memory) tends to be less damaged in people with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Because this procedural or muscle memory system may still be working properly in people who have dementia, the Montessori Method can be used very successfully as a means to reach and engage people with memory loss.

THIS METHOD WAS DEVELOPED FOR CHILDREN, WHY WILL IT WORK FOR OLDER PEOPLE?
Montessori materials are tools that help create the bridge to reconnect to people who may seem unreachable. Using these tools, Montessori programing gives older people the opportunity to use their hands and their five senses to activate and stimulate their minds. Being able to focus on the task at hand, and to experience success again helps people with Alzheimer’s feel more secure and confident and less angry and frustrated. The Montessori Method focuses on the use of remaining strengths and abilities. This positive approach to Alzheimer’s care is a source of creativity and comfort to people with dementia and caregivers alike.

The Montessori Method is based on the belief that the environment should serve the people using it. Whether living at home, or in an intentional community, the surroundings of a person with Alzheimer’s should be clutter free, easy to navigate, and filled with beauty and with living things.

Montessori programing stimulates the mind, encourages a comforting living space and also nourishes the spirit. While the mind and body of a person with Alzheimer’s may be failing, the spirit can still be strong. This program speaks to the spirit of each person by providing opportunities to engage in many art forms; writing and reading stories from real life, writing and reading poetry together, painting, singing and playing drums together.These creative experiences strengthen the imagination and the spirit. Hearing each others’ life stories, or playing in a drum circle can give people with Alzheimer’s the opportunity to experience again the bonds of friendship and love.

WHO CAN USE THIS METHOD?
Anyone who wants to keep their mind and body as strong as possible can benefit by using the Montessori Method. People who have dementia and Alzheimer’s (even those who are in a very advanced state of dementia) can benefit from this method. Medical staff, professional and family caregivers can learn the Montessori Method to help them care for older persons and persons with Alzheimer’s and dementia.