Relationship-Centered, Evidence-Backed Care

When it comes to caring for an older adult or someone living with dementia, it’s natural to focus on tasks—making meals, helping with bathing, managing appointments. Yet, the heart of great care goes beyond tasks. It’s about the relationship between the person receiving care and the person providing it. That’s why we embrace the Positive Approach to Care® (PAC) philosophy and techniques, developed by internationally recognized care educator Teepa Snow.

What is the Positive Approach to Care®?

PAC is a set of practical, evidence-based techniques designed to improve communication, reduce stress, and strengthen connections between care partners and those they support. Rather than viewing cognitive decline or aging as a collection of problems to “fix,” PAC emphasizes meeting each person where they are in the moment, respecting their abilities, and building trust through compassionate interactions.

The Benefits of PAC Philosophy and Techniques

1. Strengthens Relationships

At its core, PAC is about relationships. Care is not just something you do for someone; it’s something you do with them. By using PAC’s techniques, such as the Positive Physical Approach™ (a respectful way to greet and connect) and Hand-under-Hand® assistance (which allows the person to retain control while being supported), we build dignity, safety, and mutual respect into every interaction.

2. Reduces Stress for Everyone

Living with dementia or age-related changes can be overwhelming—not only for the individual, but also for family members and professional care partners. PAC techniques provide practical tools to de-escalate difficult situations, anticipate needs, and redirect behaviors in a positive way. The result is a calmer, more supportive environment where everyone feels less stressed.

3. Promotes Better Communication

Words are only one part of communication. PAC teaches how to use body language, tone of voice, and pacing to connect more effectively with someone whose brain may process information differently. By adjusting our approach, we create opportunities for clearer understanding and deeper connection.

4. Honors the Person’s Abilities

Every stage of dementia, and every stage of aging, brings both strengths and challenges. PAC helps care partners focus on what the person can do, rather than what they’ve lost. This fosters independence, preserves dignity, and provides a sense of purpose—key ingredients for quality of life.

5. Backed by Science, Grounded in Compassion

PAC isn’t just “feel good” care. It’s grounded in evidence-based practices that align with the latest research on brain health, trauma-informed care, and person-centered approaches. Families can feel confident knowing their loved one is receiving care that blends compassion with proven results.

Why It Matters

When care is relationship-centered and evidence-backed, it transforms the caregiving experience. Instead of feeling like a series of tasks, care becomes a shared journey filled with trust, connection, and moments of joy. For families, this means greater peace of mind. For the individual receiving care, it means a life supported with dignity, respect, and genuine compassion.

If you’d like to learn more about how our care team uses the Positive Approach to Care philosophy to support families in San Diego, contact us today. Together, we can create a care experience that prioritizes both safety and connection.