Speaking Events
Gwendolyn specializes in the area of aging and Dementia. Gwendolyn’s presentations and workshops address the needs of families and professionals in the area of aging and dementia. Email Gwendolyn for speaking and training fees.
Concussions
Concussions and Dementia
January, 2012
The disease gaining national attention is Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a neurodegenerative disorder that, according to the National Institutes of Health, is linked to repetitive trauma to the brain, such as concussions, over a long period of time.
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Dementia and Sexuality
Why is dementia and sexuality a timely issue?
September–October, 2011
Persons with dementia are constantly trying to make sense of the world around them; they often become confused trying to understand the meaning of what others are saying or doing. However, this individual retains his/her need for love and belonging and the feeling of closeness and comfort.
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Locus of Control
Significance of “locus of control” for persons with dementia.
July–August, 2011
Why is “locus of control” an important and a timely issue for persons with dementia? Unfortunately, most of what is known to date about the impact of locus of control for persons with dementia is anecdotal and lacking in scientific research methods.
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Bathing
Why are we bathing people who see no reason for having a bath?
May–June, 2011
Bathing time can be one of the most challenging times for the caregiver, and one of the most frightening times for the person with dementia. Think of all the steps we ourselves need to take when preparing for a bath.
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Sleeping
Why are we putting people to bed who are not sleepy?
March–April, 2011
I have discovered in my practice that many of the elders spend their entire day in a drowsy state, moving from bed to wheelchair, back to bed for a nap, and back to wheelchair.
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Technology
Technology: Is it a Fit for Dementia Care?
January–February, 2011
The dichotomy we are facing in dementia care today appears to revolve around time — there simply isn’t enough of it. Technology is designed to save care partners time. Persons with dementia require time.
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Dining
Personal Choice in Dining
November–December, 2010
Dining is a major enjoyment of living for us all. And for persons with dementia, the dining experience can be a strong driving theme for maintaining a person–centered environment. For persons with dementia the environment should be neither over stimulating nor under stimulating.
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Focus on their strengths
September–October, 2010
Person–centered care is founded on the ethic that all human beings are of absolute value and worthy of respect, and even persons with dementia can lead satisfying and fulfilling lives.
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Environment
Dementia and the Environment
July–August, 2010
I have also discovered that the person’s environment is not only instrumental, but critical in maintaining the person’s independence.
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