In the first part of the master’s thesis dementia is defined. In the following, types of dementia, each described separately, developmental stages of dementia, and models for understanding dementia are defined. Further, the social work with old people and people with dementia is presented. The thesis devotes a special attention to the Montessori method, describing the basic principles, its characteristics, development process of the method, and showing how the method has begun to be used to work with old people and people with dementia.
The empirical part is based on qualitative research. Survey data have been collected with interviews and observation of residents of Dom Sv. Jožef in Celje, where the Montessori method is implemented, as well as the environment and infrastructure is adapted to the inhabitants and their needs. The effects of method usage are shown in the activities and daily routines, which the authors of Montessori method ascribe great importance to. Employees involve the residents of Dom Sv. Jožef in making decisions about themselves and take into account their wishes and choices. It is clear that the Montessori method contributes to strengthening the power of the inhabitants, encourages their autonomy and enables them to maintain independence as much as possible. The method itself is focused on the person and his or her abilities.
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