Memory and Communication Aids for People with Dementia

By Michelle S. Bourgeois, Ph.D., CCC-SLP

ISBN 978-1-938870-06-4
160 pages
8.5 x 11 paper, full color
© 2013

(9 customer reviews)

$44.99

Read about the outstanding results one care program achieved when they implemented Memory and Communication Aids in their practice.

Use the ingenious communication and memory aids featured in this practical guide to significantly improve the ability of people with dementia and related memory impairments to stay connected, engaged, and functioning at their optimal level of independence. Presenting a wide array of evidence-based examples, Memory and Communication Aids for People with Dementia contains all the information needed to develop personalized supports for any individual and every circumstance.

From low-tech options such as memory wallets, memo boards, planners, and reminder cards to commercial products available through new electronic technologies, these simple but powerful tools help to provide conversation prompts, answers to common questions, and reminders for daily living. Confusion, anxiety, frustration, and challenging behaviors melt away when individuals are able to

  • communicate their needs and preferences to caregivers
  • remember important names, places, and appointments
  • complete tasks unassisted
  • engage in meaningful conversations and social interactions
  • recall past events and achievements
  • preserve their dignity and identity

Full-color illustrations and simple instructions for creating various memory and communication tools are included. Abundant examples of useful content and formats are supplemented by more than 30 downloadable guides and templates to use or customize.

Speech-language pathologists, occupational and physical therapists, activity directors, direct care staff, and family members interacting with adults with memory impairments will welcome this practical and life-enhancing resource.

Formerly published as Memory Books and Other Graphic Cuing Systems, this completely revised edition features updates and improvements including:

  • Troubleshooting tips to increase the use and acceptance of communication aids
  • New methods for evaluating and supporting reading skills
  • Improved, full-color graphics
  • Use of computer-based technologies and systems (e.g., tablets, smartphones, e-readers)
  • New resources to involve families in creating memory and communication aids
  • Adaptations for non-English speakers and people who are deaf, blind, or visually impaired
  • Enhanced focus on therapeutic goal setting and rehabilitating communication of wants, needs, and safety

About the Author
Preface
Acknowledgments

Introduction: Memory Aids for a Variety of Purposes: Beyond Conversation

  1. The Continuing Evolution of Memory Books
  2. Using Memory Aids to Enhance Conversation
  3. Using Memory Aids to Enhance Orientation
  4. Using Memory Aids to Enhance Communication of Wants, Needs, and Safety
  5. Using Memory Aids to Increase Engagement and Activity
  6. Using Memory Aids to Modify Challenging Behaviors
  7. Using Memory Aids in Adult Day, Assisted Living, and Long-Term Care Settings
  8. Using Memory Aids in the Home Environment: Helping Family Members Make and Use Memory Aids

References
Photo Credits
Index

Memory and Communication Ai… by on Scribd

9 reviews for Memory and Communication Aids for People with Dementia

  1. Administrator

    Memory and Communication Aids for People with Dementia by Michelle Bourgeois is an extremely readable and practical guide to managing memory. The strategies and suggestions offered in this book are rooted in research evidence and real-world experience. Goals for supporting memory and communication, and methods of implementing goals are clear and user-friendly. I highly recommend this book! It will be a huge resource for speech-language pathologists, other health care providers and family members of people with dementia.”
    Nina Simmons-Mackie, Ph.D., BC-ANCDS, Department of Health & Human Services, Southeastern Louisiana University

  2. Administrator

    “Dr. Bourgeois’ text is a perfect example of translational research. Her interventions are evidence based (and an impressive base of evidence it is). Most importantly, from the point of view of clinicians and caregivers, these interventions are highly effective in real world settings. They can be used immediately, across an extremely wide range of settings and challenging behaviors associated with dementia and other forms of cognitive deficits. I refer to this work whenever I provide training in the care of persons with cognitive disabilities, and continue to receive feedback as to the practicality and success of Dr. Bourgeois’ interventions. Truly, there is only one relevant question regarding the contents of this exceptional book – Why aren’t you using it?
    Cameron J. Camp, Ph.D., Director, Center for Applied Research in Dementia

  3. Administrator

    “This book provides an excellent rationale for the use of compensatory supports for people with memory loss. In addition, the book, and the associated web resources, contain outstanding examples of these supports as well as guidance for staff and family members to make use of them for people to support memory, communication, orientation and social engagement. This is a must have book for professionals who provide services for people with memory loss and for faculty who prepare these professionals.”
    David Beukelman, Ph.D., Department of Special Education & Communication Disorders, University of Nebraska, Lincoln

  4. Administrator

    “Bourgeois has created a practical guide for those working with adults with dementia to creatively and individually modify compensatory strategies for varying levels of memory challenges. This inspiring book combines evidence-based research findings with realistic application and provides many examples and accessible resources for the time-strapped clinician.”
    Michele A. Anderson, Ph.D. CCC-SLP, Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, Western Michigan University

  5. Cassandra Sparks

    I have the book, “Memory & Communication Aids for People with Dementia” in front of me and have typed in the link to obtain the downloadable forms. However, every time I put the link in it guides me to this page to purchase the book. The book was purchased at ASHA and I am very frustrated by this process. Thanks for any help you can provide.

    • Administrator

      Hi Cassandra,

      We apologize for the issues you have been experiencing trying to access Memory and Communication Aids for People with Dementia. I have sent you an email with help to resolve this problem. Thank you for reaching out.

      If anyone else is experiencing this problem, please contact marketing@healthpropress.com and we will be more than happy to assist you.

      Thank you!
      -Kaitlin, HPP Marketing Coordinator

  6. Dana Howlett-Blanford

    I have the book, “Memory & Communication Aids for People with Dementia” and have typed in the link to obtain the downloadable forms. However, every time I put the link in it guides me to this page to purchase the book. I purchased the book online a few weeks ago. I tried to send an email to marketing@healthpropress.com to report the problem but I keep getting an error message so I thought I would reach out here. I am anxious about downloading the forms so that I can use them with my patients and their families. I would appreciate any help you can provide.

    Thanks,
    Dana Howlett-Blanford

    • Administrator

      Hi Dana,

      We are so sorry that you are experiencing this issue. We will look into any issues with the marketing@healthpropress.com email address right away. I have just sent you an email with the URL and password to access the downloadable materials. Thank you for reaching out!
      –Kaitlin, Marketing Coordinator

  7. Sheena Diaz

    I also am having difficulty accessing the. Downloadable information for this book. Help please!

  8. River Wilson

    I have sent an email to marketing@healthpropress.com . The URL in the book is still not linking to the downloadable resources. Thanks in advance for your help! -River

  9. Amy

    I also have the book, “Memory & Communication Aids for People with Dementia” and have typed in the link to obtain the downloadable forms. However, every time I put the link in it gives me an ‘error’. Am I missing something? Please assist!

    • Administrator

      Hi Amy,

      I have sent you an email with instructions to access the materials. I am so sorry for any inconvenience! We are working on fixing this.

      –Kaitlin Koneceke, Marketing Manager, HPP

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