Dementia Care
‘Alzheimer’s Disease’ is the most common form of Dementia, although other known causes include Vascular Dementia, Parkinson’s disease, Multi Infarct Dementia or “under active thyroids” to name just a few. Dementia is a collective word used to describe a collection of symptoms; it is a progressive condition affecting mental ability. Behavioural difficulties and / or personality changes can accompany the main symptom of short-term memory loss.
The effects of Dementia can be both devastating and distressing for the individual and the family concerned. Poor memory, lack of concentration, confusion, disorientation, insomnia, agitation and aggression are familiar symptoms, which can sometimes lead to physical illness. A very stressful situation for all! At Ravensworth Care Home, we have designed our environment, activities and care to be both comfortable and beneficial to the Service User, their family and staff alike.
The task of caring for those with Dementia is a demanding one. It is our policy to provide the highest quality of care in a homely, safe environment, employing highly motivated, patient and enthusiastic staff to deliver planned, individualised care according to need.
All members of staff will receive dementia and learning difficulties training when it becomes available. Activities within the care home are specifically designed to both stimulate and promote co-ordination.
External doors are alarmed to alert staff to persons either entering or leaving the building. All radiators are fitted with radiator covers to prevent accidental burns and the running hot water has a controlled thermostat fitted to prevent accidental scalding.
We recognise that dementia presents its self in many differing disguises to very varying degrees. To ensure that the needs of the Service User are met correctly and appropriately, an individual assessment to identify those needs is carried out as part of the admission procedure, and is reviewed on a regular basis.
Because of the very nature of dementia, the Service Users’ needs invariably change, sometimes on a daily basis. This is monitored and recorded closely. With the regular input of health care professionals such as GP’s and psychiatric doctors, our caring and understanding staff work as a team to identify and deal with those needs accordingly.
In addition to this, we recognise that the family network may well need support. Addressing the needs of a relative with dementia can be very worrying and emotionally upsetting. We aim to support the family in an understanding and caring manner, offering support and guidance where appropriate, respecting and actively encouraging their in-put to benefit all those concerned.
