Montessori Method applied to dementia, a person-centered global approach Part 1: Origins and principles

Abstract

While dementia care is going through a major crisis, a strong call for the development of person-centered care for persons with a diagnosis of dementia has recently emerged. Person-centered care (PCC) is a philosophical and theorical intervention framework acknowledging that the individual is still a person who can live positive life experiences and relationships, despite a progressive disease, even at severe stages. It has arisen as a response to a medical model, focused on pathology and deficits. The benefits of PCC have been well documented. However, questions remain about how to concretely provide it. In this context, the Montessori method applied to dementia represents one way to apply person-centered care to person with dementia. Based on the philosophy and principles of the scientific pedagogy developed by Maria Montessori, it integrates PCC principles, associated with rehabilitation techniques, to promote constructive engagement in meaningful activities, to give back sense of control to the person with dementia, and to allow the person to have a role in the community. In this article, we will first present the person-centered care philosophy, its main principles, and effects. Secondly, we will describe a brief historical perspective of the Montessori method for person with dementia. Then, we will present Montessori principles in a detailed and structured way.