Why this helps:
A visual, centralized hub for the day’s plan reduces anxiety and confusion by creating predictable structure. It fosters independence, invites participation, and keeps everyone connected to shared goals and memories, reinforcing a sense of purpose and belonging. Thus, reducing feelings of helplessness and boredom.
How to do it:
- Use a simple tripod easel, whiteboard, or large clipboard.
- Post the day’s agenda, a favorite quote, the current Memory Journal page, or seasonal cards.
- Place it in a central, comfortable spot where all members of the caring team naturally gather.
Pro tip:
Involve your loved one in adding items to the center, like choosing a photo or marking off a completed activity.
Comfort note:
The schedule is a gentle guide, not a rigid mandate. Its primary role is to offer comfort through clarity.
Novelty Journaling:
“What item on the News Center sparked the most conversation or interest today? How did having a visual anchor change the flow of your day?”
Example moment: “Dad would lean in every morning to check the agenda. It gave him a sense of orientation and involvement.”
Caregiver note: This tool organizes care and transforms it from a series of tasks into a shared, visible narrative, reducing your mental load.
Additional notes:
This is drawn directly from our “News Center” which served as the heartbeat of our home. It kept the three “ranchers” and care team “centered” and “on the same page.” Miss Ethel, a former teacher, kept it very organized – often cutting out news articles for posting. On occasion, her posts were articles about dementia and Alzheimer’s. For Valentine’s Day, this center becomes a perfect place to display cards and love notes for ongoing enjoyment.
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Highlights du jour:
Yes, it was just a simple metal tripod which became a center for “NEWS”!
It was placed at the center of the table where Mother & Dad were frequently seated – close to the “caregiving chef” in the kitchen who was akin to being a family member! Here they would interact with her, read the daily news, watch music videos, and have their coffee cups quickly re-filled. It was where Mother and Dad spent a good part of the day when we were no longer able to go out.
From their “news central” venue, they would “supervise” the kitchen activities, the flow of traffic, and greet everyone who entered the front door! Caregivers and hospice team would stop here to say hello, check the agenda, and comment not only on the posted daily schedule, but also on the Memory Journals which reviewed activities of the previous day.
Everyone serving on the care team partnered with us in supporting the news center. The updates entered to the Memory Journals recognized special contributions made by team members on the previous day and promoted continuity of care among carers.
As we approach the celebration of Valentine’s Day, we are reminded of the enjoyment my parents derived from organizing and displaying the cards received. Does one ever tire of re-reading love notes, letters, and beautiful holiday cards throughout the entire year?
It became a tool for all seasons.
For additional information:
Please see illustration and description in this posted blog: https://abeautifulvoice.org/2020/06/27/how-something-simple-helped-to-keep-us-on-the-same-page/
Blog Author:
Zulekha Ali (“Zuley”) is a freelance writer with a commitment to delivering informative and impactful content to enrich readers’ understanding and empower them to make informed decisions.
Blog Co-Author:
Susan Troyer, MS, BA, is author and curator of ABeautifulVoice.org.
Member:
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