This 5-part program (1.5 hours per GEM), provided by Mary Donnelly, will use Teepa Snow’s GEMS® State Model to help caregivers better understand the progression of dementia and how it applies to their particular caregiving situation.

Each session will focus on a different GEM®
11/17: Diamond
11/24: Emerald
12/1: Amber
12/8: Ruby
12/15: Pearl

The GEMS® State Model recognizes the dynamic nature of the human brain and its abilities. Unlike other cognitive models, it acknowledges that everyone’s abilities can change in a moment. Modifying environments, situations, interactions, and expectations will create either supportive positive opportunities or result in distress and a sense of failure. Just as gemstones need different settings and care to show their best characteristics, so do people. Rather than focusing on a person’s loss when there is brain change, seeing individuals as precious, unique, and capable encourages a care partnership and is the core of this model. Providing supportive settings for everyone, including care providers, allows them to use what they have to be their best. The GEMS® State Model advocates that everyone living with brain change will shine when given the opportunity.

Course curriculum

  • 1

    Diamonds to Pearls – Using Teepa’s GEMS® to Identify the Progression of Dementia

    • Introduction
  • 2

    Diamond

    • Diamond
  • 3

    Emerald

    • Emerald
  • 4

    Amber

    • Amber
  • 5

    Ruby

    • Ruby
  • 6

    Pearl

    • Pearl

    • Diamonds to Pearls Survey