Montessori for Dementia, Disability and Ageing Workshop

AMI 2-Day Workshop

An AMI-approved foundational workshop exploring the Montessori philosophy as a life-changing, rehabilitative approach to caring for older people and those living with dementia or other disability - promoting dignity, respect, and independence. This workshop introduces care professionals to Montessori principles adapted for dementia care, covering foundational concepts like Dr. Maria Montessori's philosophy, understanding dementia through a strengths-based lens, human tendencies and retrogenesis, emotional intelligence, and creating prepared environments that foster independence — then progressing to practical application including environmental design, activity programming, developing meaningful roles, and implementing the 4W's framework to build a sustainable Montessori culture in care settings. This course will incorporate movement - refresh exercises throughout.

Workshop Details

Trainer & Mentor: Anne Kelly, Head of AMI Montessori for Dementia, Disability & Ageing

Course Facilitator (Trainer-in-Training): Brenda Gurung

Date: July 22-23, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Central Standard Time

Location: In-Person at the Montessori Training Center of St. Louis (3854 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108)

Cost: $299

**Participants who complete this workshop are eligible to apply separately for the AMI Beginning Practitioner Certification (additional cost & assessment required).

Brenda Gurung

Brenda Gurung (she, hers), CMDCPT, CMDCP, VDTAT, MIM, is a Montessori-credentialed dementia specialist. She leads the memory care program for a large senior living operator. Brenda is a passionate educator and advocate, recognized as a Denver7 ABC Everyday Hero, 2025 Memory Care Innovator and longtime Alzheimer’s Association volunteer. And an organic gardener and beekeeper. She provides original educational content through Be Growth Dementia Education and The Empowered Caregiver Podcast.