When I first began my journey into dementia care, like many professionals and family members, I started by learning everything I could about the disease itself.
I wanted to understand what dementia was, what causes it, and how it affects the brain.
One of the first major steps in my professional education was becoming a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP). That training gave me a strong foundation in understanding dementia as a disease and reinforced the importance of person-centered care.
It helped me see the person beyond the diagnosis.
But as valuable as that education was, something still felt missing.
I understood the theory.
I understood the disease.
But I kept asking myself an important question:
“What do I actually do in the moment when someone with dementia is confused, resistant, or overwhelmed?”
Families were asking for practical guidance.
Caregivers needed real tools.
And that is when I discovered Positive Approach to Care (PAC), developed by Teepa Snow.
PAC filled the gap I had been searching for.
It took the theory of dementia care and turned it into real, teachable skills that can be used every single day.
The Missing Link: Skills You Can Actually Use
Many dementia trainings focus on understanding the disease — which is incredibly important.
But PAC goes a step further.
It teaches how to interact with someone living with dementia in ways that reduce distress, increase cooperation, and preserve dignity.
These are not vague ideas.
They are specific, practical techniques that caregivers can learn and practice.
And once you see them in action, the difference is remarkable.
Supportive Communication
One of the first PAC skills that transforms interactions is supportive communication.
Dementia changes how the brain processes language. Words alone are often not enough.
PAC teaches caregivers to use:
- Positive personal connectors
• Positive action starters
• clear, supportive tone and body language
Example
Instead of saying:
“Mom, you need to come over here so we can get ready.”
PAC teaches a more supportive approach:
“Hi Mom, it’s Jen. I’m here to help.”
Then using a positive action starter:
“Let’s stand up together.”
This type of communication feels less demanding and more collaborative.
It invites participation rather than resistance.
Positive Physical Approach
Another powerful PAC skill is the Positive Physical Approach™.
How we approach someone physically can determine whether an interaction feels safe or threatening.
PAC teaches caregivers to:
- approach from the front
• get at eye level
• move slowly
• offer a greeting and visual cue
For someone living with dementia, being approached suddenly from the side or behind can be startling and confusing.
A positive physical approach helps the person feel seen, respected, and safe.
This small adjustment can prevent many moments of distress.
The Holy Grail: Hand Under Hand®
If there is one PAC technique that completely changes caregiving interactions, it is Hand Under Hand®.
This method allows a caregiver to guide someone through activities without taking control away from them.
Instead of grabbing a person’s hand or forcing a movement, the caregiver places their hand underneath the other person’s hand.
This creates a supportive partnership.
Why it works
Hand Under Hand allows the person living with dementia to:
- feel supported rather than controlled
• maintain a sense of independence
• participate in activities longer
It also allows the caregiver to assist with tasks like:
- standing up
• walking safely
• eating
• brushing teeth
• getting dressed
Once caregivers learn this technique, they often say the same thing:
“Why didn’t anyone teach us this sooner?”
Why These Skills Matter
Dementia care is not just about managing symptoms.
It is about preserving dignity, reducing distress, and maintaining connection.
PAC skills help caregivers:
- prevent unnecessary conflict
• improve cooperation
• reduce anxiety and fear
• support independence longer
• create meaningful moments of connection
They transform caregiving from reactive to intentional.
Teaching Skills That Change Care
One of the reasons I am so passionate about PAC is because I have seen how powerful these skills can be — not just for professionals, but for families.
When caregivers learn these techniques, they often feel relief.
They finally have tools they can use when situations feel difficult.
And suddenly moments that once felt frustrating begin to feel manageable.
That is the power of skill-based dementia care.
Supporting Caregivers Through the Journey
At Dementia Family Support (DFS), education is at the heart of what we do.
We help families, caregivers, and professionals learn practical dementia care skills that improve daily interactions and quality of life.
Because when caregivers have the right tools, they gain confidence.
And when confidence grows, care becomes calmer, safer, and more compassionate.
