SAGE proudly embraces The GEMS model as a classification system for dementia stages that uses six gemstones to represent different characteristics of dementia:
- Sapphire: The brain is aging normally, and the person is flexible, organized, and able to work with others
- Diamond: The person is clear and sharp, but becomes increasingly rigid and doesn’t do well with change
- Emerald: The person is no longer clear and sharp, and may get lost in time or place
- Amber: The person is focused on sensation, manipulating, gathering, and touching things
- Ruby: The person’s fine-motor skills in their eyes, fingers, mouth, and feet begin to fade
- Pearl: The person is still and quiet, unable to actively move or respond
The GEMS model can help caregivers understand dementia behaviors and create more effective support plans. For example, caregivers can use the model to:
- Adapt cues to the various gem states
- Determine how to best structure treatment sessions and programs
- Educate caregivers to better guide daily activities
- Avoid conflict by acknowledging the warning signs and adapting to the situation
While the stages of dementia are often predictable, the experience each person has is different.