International dementia care expert Anne Kelly, pioneer of the Montessori approach to dementia, disability and aging, is to lead a two-day workshop on the method in London next month.

Montessori for Dementia, Disability, and Ageing is designed for professionals in residential settings and family carers. It aims to transfer the ethos of Dr Maria Montessori, which is generally associated with early childhood, into aged and disability care. The focus is on respecting individuals and creating environments where they can do things for themselves and contribute to their home or community.

Dementia consultant Kelly said:  “Dementia and disabilities can make people feel worthless and miserable, and home routines can so easily rob them of their independence and dignity. The Montessori approach can dramatically improve their well-being and enable them to do things for themselves rather than having things done for them. It empowers not only patients but carers and families too.”

The two-day workshop will take place in London on 20 and 21 November and will include:

• How to prepare environments conducive to self-care and community engagement for individuals facing Dementia, ageing, or disability challenges
• Matching roles and activities to individual abilities, leveraging personal history and strengths
• Fostering independence, social connections, friendships, and a sense of purpose
• Building confidence and self-esteem through well-structured routines
• Providing cues, prompts, materials, and templates to support memory loss or other challenges
• Implementing the approach in various settings, from individual care to group activities, in both home and residential settings and hospitals.