With the support of her Park Springs care team, Ruth, a lifelong gardener and Member living with dementia, continues to garden, adding purpose and beauty to her days.
Daily Life
Marsha, Ruth’s care partner, asks Ruth what she feels like doing this morning. She offers a few choices—gardening or working on a joint photo album. Ruth excitedly chooses to garden.
Marsha engages Ruth as they garden, getting her views on the best mix of colors for a bed of annuals.
Like other pursuits in the Household, gardening is an authentic and meaningful pastime.
During these moments Marsha is not so much caring for Ruth, as caring about her.
Key Takeaways
Ruth’s Care Team elicit responses and preferences from her, building Ruth’s day around them.
By supporting Ruth in gardening, Marsha has contributed to Ruth’s sense of achievement.
The Team’s energy is directed at Ruth, the person, and Member-inspired rhythms, strengths and abilities.
The connection between the Team and the Member is authentic, with mutual respect and learning.