SHARE for Dementia
A program designed for persons living with dementia and their care partners
The SHARE program
An evidence-based care planning program that empowers and supports.
​
The five-session SHARE program is designed to engage both the person living with early stage dementia and their care partner in discussions about symptoms, behaviors, effective communication, care values and preferences, healthy activities, and planning for the future.
The SHARE program was developed by dementia and gerontology experts through funding from the National Institute on Aging. SHARE is based on two decades of research by the Center for Research and Education, part of the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging, and one of the nation’s premier centers for applied aging research.
​
And now, here it is at GLADYS! We are thrilled to be able to offer this innovative program in Iowa.
​
Scheduling the SHARE program for you and your loved one(s) will be available in early 2024. For more information or to get in contact with Hayl, the SHARE Counselor, fill out the information at the bottom of the page.
SHARE: Support, Health, Activities, Resources, Education
The SHARE Sessions
How it works/What it entails
The five (5) sessions (with a 6th optional session) are in-person however, later in the program participants can request some virtual support. Each session focuses on a different topic area with considerations of social determinants of health.
Session #1
Welcome to SHARE
Learn how SHARE will benefit you and your SHARE partner. Ask questions about your diagnosis and symptoms, communication strategies, and what to expect. Take the first steps towards planning for the future by discussing care values and the role they play when making decisions.
Sessions #2-5
Building your SHARE Plan
Guided by your SHARE Counselor you and your care partner will begin to understand how to communicate more effectively and will build a care plan that includes preferences for care, shared duties around the home, additional supports needed, stress management techniques, and much more. You and your care partner will be able to create a shared plan and have effective discussions using the SHARE iPad app. In session #5 we will review your SHARE Plan one last time, discuss any challenges you see in implementation, and work out a strategy for maintaining, revising, and acting upon the individualized plan.
Optional Session #6
Adding Other Supportive Services/Engaging Other Family Members or Friends
This final optional session is where you will review your accomplishments thus far and the plan you created. It is also an opportunity to work with other family members, other caregivers, or in-home care professionals to discuss and plan for accessing future services or other needs. The session will allow you to discuss with family your SHARE Plan and the issues that are important to you both. Involving others will strengthen your partnership as well as your support network.
Get Started with SHARE
