The word “Dementia” provokes some of the most emotional responses in different individuals across all spectrums of age, race, culture, sex, social standing and even education. And it is no different for me. My name is Sira Botes OTR/L CHT CDP and creator of the Botes Memory Method. As a grandchild, child, neighbor and therapist, I have experienced these conflicting and provoking emotions first hand.
A grandfather suffering from severe memory loss, cared for by a loving and committed grandmother was the first experiences I had with this devastation. At the end he was bedridden, needed 24/7 care on a very personal level, and did not recognize any family or friends. I so wish I could turn back time and really be present for my grandmother – I was 14 years old when he passed.
As an occupational therapist I developed scientific, and analytical skills that enabled me to recognize some early signs of cognitive decline in my lovely mother. Now living with almost complete short-term memory loss her and my father’s resilience, courage and ability to adapt to the new normal has been awe inspiring.
Working with persons living with Dementia have stirred a special calling within me to reach out to and empower and equip communities, care partners and families with the necessary skills to connect with their loved ones.
Through the development of a new cognitive analysis, associated with a new Bouquet Method for cognitive staging it is my dream to provide the dementia community with a communication platform upon which we can grow our dementia sensitivity and care approach.
Welcome to our internet community and join us in our quest for excellence.
Sira Botes,
Creator of the Botes Memory Method