Our goal is to shift the paradigm from merely providing care to actively engaging with individuals living with dementia. By fostering collaboration and focusing on each person's unique abilities, we strive to reduce disability and enhance functionality at every stage of the dementia journey.
OUR GOAL
To create a paradigm shift:
Instead of doing to or for a person living with dementia, to doing with a person living with dementia; thus, striving to decrease excess disability through identifying their best ability to function at every stage of dementia.
Consultation
During the consultation phase we engage with care partners and family members to gain a comprehensive understanding of the unique needs and challenges associated with caring for a loved one with dementia. Through open dialogue and careful assessment, we establish a personalized care plan tailored to the individual's specific cognitive and functional abilities.
Planning
In the planning stage, we work collaboratively to develop a structured and effective care plan. This plan outlines key strategies and interventions aimed at promoting a level of independence, enhancing quality of life, and managing symptoms associated with dementia. We handle each situation with careful consideration of the individual's preferences, capabilities, and goals.
Learning
We recognize the importance of equipping care partners and family members with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide optimal care for their loved ones with dementia. Through comprehensive workshops and training sessions, we empower caregivers to gain a deeper understanding of dementia, its progression, and effective caregiving strategies.
Implementation
Once the care plan has been established and care partners have received the necessary education and training, we support the implementation of strategies and interventions aimed at optimizing the well-being of the individual with dementia. Our team provides ongoing guidance, support, and monitoring to ensure that the care plan is effectively implemented and adapted as needed.
- Ken Petti
Our Mission
With a compassionate and personalized approach, we strive to empower individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. We work collaboratively with clients and their loved ones to provide extensive knowledge and support, fostering positive change and enhancing quality of life for everyone involved.
WANT TO WORK WITH US?
September 18, 2025 | 1–3 PM, The Memory Café
Conni’s Café at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Celebration Hall
139 Craigs Meadow Road, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
The Memory Café is a warm and friendly gathering place for individuals living with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), Alzheimer’s, or other dementias and their care partners. Join us for conversation, support, and community in a relaxed atmosphere where you will discover that you are not alone.
RSVP: Barbara Van Nortwick at 570-236-3380.
October 9, 2025, Dementia Care & Caregivers Forum
Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort
- Registration & Coffee Service: 7:30 AM
- Doors Open: 8:00 AM
- Program Begins: 8:30 AM
This forum provides valuable insights and solutions for those living with dementia, as well as the families and caregivers who support them. The program features dementia care expert Teepa Snow, alongside local agencies, vendors, and professionals offering resources.
Ticket Information:
- $20 per session
- $30 for the full day
- $50 with CEU credits (pending accreditation for RN, Social Work, PT, OT, and Speech Therapy in PA)
Sessions:
- Morning (8:30–11:45 AM): Dementia Care Across the Healthcare Setting
- Afternoon (1:00–4:00 PM): Navigating the Journey of Dementia (for families and caregivers)
Registration: Purchase tickets at cfmcpa.org/events or call Barbara Van Nortwick at 570-236-3380.
TESTIMONIALS
"My brother was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia, and we were woefully uninformed as to how to deal with his symptoms. Barbara was a tremendous help in guiding us by providing information and helping us to understand the nuances of my brother’s behavior. With Barbara’s kind and compassionate assistance, we were able to help my brother achieve and maintain as high a quality of life as possible. We are forever grateful and indebted."
Recent Client
"Barbara is an extremely knowledgeable person, sharing her time and her wisdom in the field of dementia care and, in specific, Alzheimer's, and I and many others have benefited from her goal of sharing it. Over the past two years our numbers have grown and our meeting room is full each month as we share our lives and experiences under Barbara's guidance. Despite our growing numbers, Barbara calls each one of us prior to the meeting to remind us of the date and time. I am very grateful to have met Barbara and to be part of this group."
Toni N.
Founder & Owner
Barbara Van Nortwick
M.Ed., OTR/L, CDP
As an Occupational Therapist, Certified Dementia Practitioner, and Dementia Navigator, Barbara specializes in offering invaluable training and support to caregivers and individuals living with dementia. Her goal is to emphasize remaining abilities and empower those living with brain change to live life to the fullest. Additionally, Barbara hosts a variety of Workshops and Support Groups for caregivers, providing a space for mutual support, caregiving resources, and educational opportunities to navigate the challenges of dementia care with confidence and resilience.
FAQS
