What is Teepa Snow training?

With more than 55 million people worldwide affected by dementia, the need for effective and compassionate caregiving is paramount. What is Teepa Snow training? Known as the Positive Approach to Care (PAC), it offers a framework for understanding and responding to the challenges of brain change, providing practical techniques for both professionals and families.

Quick Summary

Teepa Snow training, or Positive Approach to Care (PAC), is a program by occupational therapist Teepa Snow focusing on understanding brain changes in dementia to foster compassionate interactions and reduce stress for individuals and caregivers.

Key Points

• Positive Approach to Care (PAC): Teepa Snow's training promotes a person-centered philosophy focusing on relationships and adapting care to changing abilities.

• GEMS® Model: This model uses gemstone analogies to describe dynamic brain states in dementia, moving beyond rigid stages to focus on moment-to-moment abilities.

• Hand-under-Hand® Technique: An evidence-based physical assistance technique that provides a sense of control and reduces resistance.

• Positive Physical Approach™ (PPA): A gentle, non-threatening method for approaching and connecting with individuals with dementia.

• Empowers Caregivers: The training provides practical skills, increases confidence, and helps create more positive interactions.

• Broad Accessibility: Teepa Snow's methods are available through various formats like online courses and workshops for families and professionals.

Understanding the Philosophy Behind Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care

Teepa Snow's training, the Positive Approach to Care (PAC), focuses on understanding the brain changes in dementia rather than just focusing on lost abilities. It aims to help caregivers see the world from the perspective of the person with dementia for more compassionate interactions.

The GEMS State Model for Dementia

A key element of Teepa Snow's training is the GEMS® State Model. This model uses gemstone analogies to describe different cognitive states in dementia, acknowledging that an individual's state can vary. The GEMS model describes states from Sapphire (flexible) to Pearl (reflex-governed).

Core Techniques for Positive Interaction

PAC training teaches practical techniques to connect and reduce resistance.

Hand-under-Hand® (HuH)

This technique involves placing your hand under the hand of the person you're assisting, offering a sense of control and using muscle memory for tasks.

Positive Physical Approach™ (PPA)

PPA is a method for approaching someone with dementia to prevent agitation. It includes approaching from the front and using positive cues.

Positive Personal Connections (PPC) and Positive Action Starters (PAS)

PPC and PAS are verbal methods to build rapport and encourage participation. PPC uses conversation to connect before a request, while PAS uses phrases to encourage cooperation.

The Benefits for Caregivers and the Person with Dementia

The PAC model offers benefits to both individuals. Those with dementia may experience increased dignity and reduced agitation. Caregivers can gain confidence, reduce stress, and improve communication.

Teepa Snow's Approach vs. Traditional Dementia Care

Teepa Snow's PAC model differs from traditional approaches by emphasizing retained abilities, adaptable communication, understanding the person's perspective, improving quality of life, and viewing the caregiver as a partner. Traditional care often focuses on deficits and managing symptoms.

Feature	Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care (PAC)	Traditional Dementia Care
Focus	Retained abilities and strengths.	Lost abilities and deficits.
Communication	Adaptable, empathetic communication using verbal, physical, and visual cues.	Standard communication that can cause confusion and frustration.
Perspective	Understanding the person's shifting reality due to brain change.	Treating the person as if they are deliberately difficult or uncooperative.
Goal	Enhance quality of life and foster positive relationships.	Manage symptoms and behaviors.
Caregiver Role	Empowered and empathetic partner.	Task-oriented manager.
Outcomes	Reduced resistance and stress, increased connection.	Higher risk of agitation and caregiver burnout.

Finding Teepa Snow Training

Teepa Snow's training is available online, through workshops, and certification programs from Positive Approach to Care (PAC). Many care organizations also use PAC principles. Find more information on the {Link: Positive Approach to Care website https://teepasnow.com/}.

Conclusion

Teepa Snow training offers a person-centered approach to dementia care. By equipping caregivers with understanding and skills for navigating brain change, PAC aims to enhance dignity, improve interactions, and lead to better quality of life for individuals with dementia and their care partners.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Teepa Snow mean by 'Positive Approach to Care'?

The Positive Approach to Care (PAC) is a method by Teepa Snow that helps caregivers understand and adapt to the changes associated with dementia. It focuses on retained abilities to create more positive interactions.

What is the GEMS model in Teepa Snow training?

The GEMS model uses gemstone analogies to represent different brain states in dementia. It helps caregivers identify and respond to changing abilities and behaviors throughout the day.

Is Teepa Snow training suitable for family caregivers or just professionals?

Teepa Snow training is designed for both professional and family caregivers. It provides practical techniques and insights beneficial for anyone caring for someone with brain change.

What is the 'Hand-under-Hand' technique?

The Hand-under-Hand® (HuH) technique is an evidence-based method for providing physical support. By placing your hand under theirs, it gives a sense of control and reduces resistance during tasks.

How does Teepa Snow's approach compare to traditional dementia care?

Teepa Snow's approach is person-centered, focusing on retained abilities and understanding perspective. Traditional models often focus on managing deficits, which can increase stress.

How can Teepa Snow training help with challenging behaviors?

By understanding brain changes, caregivers can better anticipate and de-escalate challenging behaviors. The training offers techniques like the Positive Physical Approach to reduce agitation for both parties.

Where can I find Teepa Snow training and resources?

Resources are available through the Positive Approach to Care (PAC) website, including online courses. Many senior living communities and platforms like Relias Academy and CareAcademy also offer her programs.