Enhancing Care with Engagement Plans

An Engagement Plan captures significant details, events, and memories from a person’s life in a personalized narrative. It helps caregivers, family members, and healthcare professionals understand and connect with an individual on a deeper level. By creating an Engagement Plan, we improve the quality of care, making it more person-centered. Personal information enhances communication, providing comfort and a sense of identity for individuals with dementia.

At University Senior Living, we gather this information as soon as possible, before a resident moves into our Memory Care Neighborhood. As dementia progresses, it often becomes more difficult for residents to communicate their wants, needs, and wishes. These plans help us meet their desires throughout their dementia journey.

An Engagement Plan is a tool that involves family members in the decision-making process for their loved one’s daily needs, wants, and desires. This plan is especially important for someone living with dementia, as it provides staff with insights into who the person was before dementia, their care needs, and their level of independence.

To prepare for the future care of a loved one, establish a routine, take them to familiar places, and begin introducing redirection techniques.

Start now to prepare for your future and/or the future of your loved ones. Provide detailed information about your background, history, likes, and dislikes. Include what makes you happy, sad, and fearful. Mention any special things that bring you joy and comfort. These Engagement Plans improve caregiving, aid in emotional comfort, and facilitate communication. They also enable those around you to honor your life and ensure you receive personalized and compassionate care. You can find free templates online at legacyproject.org and crisisprevention.com.