To strengthen its commitment to employee development and address the growing need for dementia care in the United States, Columbine Health Systems proudly hosted a transformative workshop titled "Building Hands-On Skills for Communication and Interactions." on Tuesday, August 1, 2023. This workshop, led by Teepa Snow, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, one of the world's leading educators on dementia care, aimed to equip Columbine Health System employees and community guests with essential tools for providing compassionate and effective care to those with dementia.
Teepa Snow's extensive experience as an occupational therapist spanning over four decades has led her to develop a comprehensive model for understanding the progression of dementia and its impact on an individual's abilities. Moreover, her creation of the Positive Approach to Care training strategies has provided caregivers with proven techniques to optimize support for individuals experiencing brain changes.
During the workshop, Teepa Snow emphasized a powerful message: "Dementia doesn't rob someone of their dignity; it is our reaction to them that does." With this philosophy at the core of her approach, Teepa encourages caregivers to approach individuals with dementia with empathy, respect, and understanding, fostering an environment that upholds their dignity and enhances their quality of life.
Columbine Health Systems CEO, Paul Benigni, expressed his delight in hosting Teepa Snow in Fort Collins, acknowledging her as a world-renowned speaker in the field of geriatric health. Providing employees with access to Teepa's knowledge and the opportunity to engage with her directly through questions enables Columbine Health Systems to remain at the forefront of dementia care, ensuring that the highest quality of care is available to Northern Colorado seniors.
The importance of such workshops cannot be overstated, especially considering the aging Baby Boom generation in America. With the number of Americans aged 65 or older living with dementia projected to reach approximately nine million by 2030 and nearly 12 million by 2040, it becomes increasingly crucial for healthcare providers to be well-equipped to provide specialized care for individuals with dementia.
Columbine Health Systems' dedication to investing in its employees and partnering with experts like Teepa Snow reaffirms its commitment to meeting the needs of its community. By continuously seeking out opportunities to enhance dementia care knowledge and skills, Columbine Health Systems ensures that seniors in Northern Colorado receive the compassionate, dignified, and outstanding care they deserve as they age gracefully with dignity and respect.
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