The Dementia Connection: Sensory-Based Tools to Support Caregivers & Loved Ones with Dr. Jennifer Stelter

📝 Episode Overview:

In this episode, Laura is joined by clinical psychologist and dementia care innovator Dr. Jennifer Stelter to explore the Dementia Connection Model—a powerful, research-backed approach to dementia care that centers on non-pharmacological interventions like sensory stimulation, behavioral therapy, and prescriptive engagement.

Whether you’re a family caregiver or a professional, this episode offers hope, practical tools, and an entirely new lens on what’s possible in dementia support.

👤 Meet Dr. Jennifer Stelter:

Dr. Jennifer Stelter is a clinical psychologist and co-owner of the Dementia Connection Institute. She developed the Dementia Connection Model, which helps caregivers connect with those living with dementia by focusing on developmental needs instead of chronological age. Her work is rooted in neuroscience, sensory-based interventions, and behavior change—and she is the author of The Busy Caregiver's Guide to Advanced Alzheimer's Disease.

📌 Topics Discussed:

• What is the Dementia Connection Model?
• How sensory stimulation impacts mood and behavior
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy adapted for dementia care
• Diet, routine, and environmental design in caregiving
• Creativity as a tool for engagement and connection
• Results from implementing the model in real-world settings
• Why prescriptive engagement changes outcomes for caregivers and care receivers

⏱️ Timestamps (Approximate):

00:00 – Introduction and Guest Presentation

01:23 – Dr. Stelter’s journey into dementia care

04:19 – Introduction to the Dementia Connection Model

04:43 – The foundational pillars of the model

09:15 – The power of sensory stimulation in dementia care

12:41 – Cognitive behavioral theory in action

16:34 – How to implement the model in daily caregiving

21:15 – Visual contrast and food presentation

21:34 – Mediterranean diet benefits for dementia patients

22:18 – Results from a 3-month implementation study

23:07 – Financial and emotional benefits of the model

25:08 – Sharing the model through her book

26:53 – The role of creativity in dementia care

29:59 – What is prescriptive engagement?

36:46 – The future of dementia care + next steps for the institute

39:18 – Final thoughts and encouragement

39:42 – Closing remarks & how to connect with Dr. Stelter

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Non-pharmacological interventions can dramatically improve quality of life
• Sensory stimulation can calm the nervous system and support connection
• Matching care to developmental age opens new pathways for communication
• Creative, consistent engagement can reduce caregiver stress and burnout
• Caregiving is most effective when it’s proactive, personalized, and heart-centered

📚 Resources Mentioned:

• The Dementia Connection Institute
• The Busy Caregiver’s Guide to Advanced Alzheimer’s Disease by Dr. Jennifer Stelter

🤝 Connect with Dr. Jennifer Stelter:

Visit dementiaconnectioninstitute.org for tools, training, and to learn more about the Dementia Connection Model.

🌿 Connect with Laura Vaillancourt & the Life on Repeat Podcast:

Website: https://lifeonrepeatpodcast.com

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