Dodge Park Rest Home subscribes to a philosophy known as "normalization." The theories of normalization revolve around personal value, but our society values only certain things in people. We value youth as opposed to being old, health as opposed to illness, and strength as opposed to weakness. We value personal possessions such as nice homes, cars and clothing. We value accomplishments and valued job roles. We also value education and mental acumen as opposed to mental deficiencies brought on by a dementing illness.

What happens when an older person with dementia moves into a Rest Home community or a nursing home? They no longer exhibit the characteristics that our society values. They are neither young nor articulate and they no longer have their valued jobs or possessions. This can lead to the person being subconsciously thought of as different and may even be assigned negative roles. An example is that the elderly person with dementia might be thought

of as a child instead of a valued adult. They may be given coloring books or dolls and talked to in a childish, demeaning manner.

Normalization dictates that you should do everything possible to enhance positive characteristics that add value to the elderly with dementia. We can't change the fact that the person is old or has dementia, but we can make sure that the person is dressed and groomed in a way similar to someone living in the community at large. We can make sure ladies have appropriate make-up and jewelry, attend make up classes, or they may carry a purse. The gentlemen can wear shirts and sport coats. Additionally, they should engage in activities that demonstrate their competence and creativity.

Value can also be enhanced by surrounding the resident with imagery, photos, and other memorabilia to help tell the residents' life story. In their memory lane on their room walls we can put copies of diplomas and awards received over the lifetime of the resident. We can put in items that tell us of hobbies and jobs held.

Carrying the story through the resident's room, we can make sure that we personalize the room with personal furnishings and items that tell us about their interests and accomplishments.

To find out more about Dodge Park Rest Home "normalization" process come and visit us anytime, and we will be happy to share our residents life and story

Hope to see you all at our upcoming events.

Have a blessed and safe weekend and enjoy your family.
 

For those of our readers and/or supporters who are celebrating tonight the Jewish holiest holiday "Yom Kippur" we would like to wish a easy and safe fasting and "Gmar Hatima Tova" (May you will be written in the book of life) 

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