StrengthsSHIFT™ Framework

Seeing Strengths, Expanding Possibilities

Developed by Jessica Luh Kim & Mary Beth Wighton

A circular diagram illustrating the StrengthsSHIFT framework with five steps: 1. See Differently, 2. Highlight Strengths, 3. Integrate Well-Being, 4. Foster Connection, 5. Transform Action. The framework emphasizes focusing on strengths and positive aspects.

StrengthsSHIFT™ is a free, open-access framework developed by Mary Beth Wighton and Jessica Luh Kim to help individuals, care partners, and organizations shift from a deficit view of dementia to one grounded in strengths, well-being, and possibility.

At its heart is a simple but profound belief - that people living with dementia deserve to live with dignity, meaning, and connection. When we change the lens from decline and inability to strengths and possibility, we see the whole person. We begin to honour choice, support well-being, and create new opportunities for living well.

The Five Shifts

  1. See Differently - shift the mindset from deficit to strengths and possibility

  2. Highlight Strengths - notice, name, and build on what's strong

  3. Integrate Well-Being - connect strengths to what matters most

  4. Foster Connection - move from doing for to doing with

  5. Transform Action - turn insight into small, sustainable steps

About the Framework

StrengthsSHIFT™ grew out of the lived and professional experiences of Mary Beth Wighton and Jessica Luh Kim, whose partnership began through the Murray Alzheimer Research and Education Program. The framework integrates the published work of Dr. Allen Power, the Eden Alternative Domains of Well-Being, the By Us For Us Guides developed by people living with dementia, and the evidence-based frameworks of Gallup CliftonStrengths and the VIA Institute on Character Strengths - brought together into an original five-step approach grounded in lived and professional experience.

StrengthsSHIFT™ Framework © 2025 J. Luh Kim & M. Wighton. All rights reserved.

Download the Framework

Download the full StrengthsSHIFT™ Framework to explore all five shifts, reflective questions, and practical strategies for everyday application.

Access the framework and begin applying a strengths-based approach in your everyday practice.

Download the StrengthsSHIFT™ Framework