Signature Programs

Montessori Approach to Dementia Care

Banwell Gardens Care Centre has developed a specialized approach to dementia care that uses Montessori methods to provide opportunities for older adults with dementia to interact positively in their environment and function at the highest possible level. Our Montessori approach specifically focuses on coping with the cognitive and physical challenges experienced by residents with memory loss by offering meaningful activities designed to meet individual resident needs. Both our Programs and Nursing teams are specially trained in the Montessori approach and use these methods in all care areas within the Home.

Montessori methods are designed to preserve many skills and stimulate the mind to assist the resident in reconnecting with the environment, increasing fine motor skills and building self-esteem. Residents are treated with respect and kindness, while our team members focus on providing a routine of daily activities that specifically reflect the needs of your loved one. The approach enables residents with memory loss to experience success by increasing focus on the task at hand. This creates feelings of greater security and confidence, and decreases agitation and frustration. Small group settings offer individual attention, are social, and stimulate recognition and memory. Montessori based approaches provide a way to enhance quality of life for residents by giving them a sense of self-worth and accomplishment through specialized activities.

We invite you to come and visit us, or speak with one of our team members to find out more about our Montessori approach.

Java Music Club ©

The Java Music Club © is a unique, mutual support group program for residents of all ages and physical/mental abilities living in long term care. This interactive program provides our residents with the opportunity to join together in songs and share their life stories and experiences. Java Music Club is an inclusive and empowering program that specifically addresses critical social issues of depression and loneliness within a group environment. It is a research-based psychosocial intervention program that fosters relationships and encourages long-term friendships.

Residents take an active role in the Club by volunteering to lead sessions and share their stories. Each group session focuses on a weekly theme chosen from a resource manual specifically tailored to encourage group participation, while addressing underlying social issues. A highlight of the program is the “Java Talking Stick”, a branch-like, wooden stick that has been blessed by a spiritual group within the Aboriginal culture, and is passed among the participants. When a resident receives the stick, it is his or her turn to share experiences with their new-found friends, in a manner that makes them comfortable in their social interaction while building camaraderie within the group.

Java has changed the way residents communicate, encouraged and motivated individuals, and made it fun! Come and join us anytime, and experience Java for yourself.