Ecumen’s Emmanuel Nursing Home in Detroit Lakes is rolling out a new approach to dementia care, using a Montessori education model to give residents a new sense of ownership and engagement.

Detroit Lakes is one of three Ecumen locations across Minnesota that is implementing a care model based on the Montessori method, designed to emphasize residents’ interests and abilities rather than their limitations. The initiative, which also includes Ecumen North Branch and Ecumen Pathstone, is supported by a Performance-Based Initiative Program (PIPP) grant from the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS).

“We are excited to be a part of an effort that we believe will enhance the quality of life and engagement of our residents in a meaningful way,” said Danielle Olson, executive director at Ecumen Detroit Lakes. “Our Awakenings program enhanced with the Montessori approach has not only improved the quality of care for those we serve but has engaged our team members in a whole new way. The positive effect it has had on our whole campus leaves me speechless.”

Developed by an Italian doctor in 1907, the Montessori Method has been used worldwide to create student-led learning environments. This approach has also shown promise in helping older adults develop ownership and joy in their daily activities. The introduction of a Montessori Inspired Lifestyle approach for residents builds on Ecumen’s award-winning Awakenings care-giving model, which prioritizes individual needs to support the highest quality of life.

“Ecumen has been a leader in developing innovative approaches to dementia care, so this initiative is true to our mission,” said Shelley Kendrick, president and CEO of Ecumen. “It’s giving us new tools to foster collaboration with residents, allowing them to choose activities that are meaningful to them and giving them a renewed feeling of control.”

The certification of the programs to implement the Montessori-Inspired Lifestyle approach includes an innovative collaboration with the Center for Applied Research in Dementia (CARD), Accelerated Care Plus (ACP), and local non-profit COMPAS Arts.

In the first months of the program, Ecumen Detroit Lakes team members have seen positive changes among residents. One resident has taken control of his own physical therapy schedule, his independence giving him pride in his progress. Other residents have taken the initiative on other activities, such as creating art for table centerpieces and mentoring other residents when they move into the facility.

Ecumen will measure the impact of this approach on residents, families, and care providers in an effort to help transform dementia care across the country.

Offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Transitional Care, and Long-Term Care, Ecumen Seasons Detroit Lakes is part of Ecumen, a nonprofit organization with more than 160 years of experience and more than 40 senior living communities throughout the Midwest. Ecumen advocates for older adults by providing housing choices, compassionate health care and innovative services to support connected, fulfilled lives.