During my first visit, my orientation, I discovered that 'Best Friends' is actually a universally accepted approach to caring for people with dementia. This approach encourages volunteers to become, well, best friends with the 'participant' of the organization. This encourages the building of relationships and trust within the small community provided to the participants. We were told that it is important to treat the participants as just that - participants. Those with dementia and Alzheimer's are just as much of people than those without.
From what I have researched and been informed of, the Best Friends Day Center cares for adults with dementia and Alzheimer's during the day while their caretakers go to jobs or run errands. The participants are cared for in a multitude of ways including everything from performing fun activities, to having lunch, to having an on-staff nurse available. This past Thursday, I officially started my volunteer experience and was able to witness the way in which the Best Friends Day Center cares its participants. Together with other staff and participants, I helped to make "Get Well Soon" cards and Valentine's Day decorations. We listened to the piano tuner and talked about the lessons that we had received as children. I also assisted in providing lunch for the participants.
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From my experience and research, I have concluded that the ultimate goal of the Best Friends Day Center its staff is to make the participants feel safe, loved, and at home. I was even invited to help provide some entertainment to the participants when they all found out that I can play the piano. As can be seen in the image to the right, music is a large factor in how the Best Friends Day Center builds community, so I am honored to be presented with the opportunity to help continue to build community.
With love,
Emily
Image provided by http://tomeblen.bloginky.com/2015/01/13/best-friends-seeks-more-male-volunteers-for-alzheimers-care/.
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