Midland Health Care Managers and Senior staff have recently completed the Dementia Champions Award with Care First Consultancy and as a result our homes are implementing a number of new initiatives into the home to enhance the care we provide to our Dementia clients.
These include Activity provision directly linked to recommendations and practices recommended by one of the leading Dementia care specialists, David Sheard and his Dementia Care matters team on which the Champions Award is based.
There are 3 main areas which we will be looking at to improve your loved ones experience with us.
1. The Environment
Our home has commenced redecorating several areas in strong colours with themed areas promoting stimulation, conversation, interaction, memory and increased responsiveness.
In line with recommended practice you will see that each lounge is being or has been converted into an area whereby stimulation is provided at an appropriate level for the residents who use it. This means each lounge may vary in decor, lighting and the level of equipment provided but in all we aim to provide stimulation at a level appropriate to the individuals who use the lounge.
Each “compartment” of the home will be a different colour or different themed area with each door being a different colour to stimulate memory and/or association so that our residents may recognise their room.
2. Activity
Each day there will be different types and levels of activity available and a schedule which is revised throughout the year is displayed around the home, however in our high dependency lounge we have implemented the Butterfly approach to activity and communication.
This involves staff spending different amounts of time with each individual varying from a few seconds to several minutes making meaningful contact and promoting communication using visual and sensory aids. The staff at Midland Healthcare are actively encouraged to use touch as a means of providing comfort and communication through contact not only with themselves but with soft toys, dolls, curios, materials like wool, velvet and even teddy bears!
There is overwhelming evidence to suggest this can make some individuals feel safe and secure which can only be good for your loved ones.
We are also introducing memory bags/boxes which will contain items specifically relevant to your loved ones individual life.
3. Uniform
Midland Health Care has commenced evaluating the use of staff uniform which could be seen as a barrier or could conjure negative memories.
The staff are currently developing a dress code which will see them dress in bright clothes which will promote re-action and communication and individuals will wear specially designed attire with items attached to promote stimulation and interaction.
We know this is going to be a little different and seemingly a move away from previous Dementia care but we are committed to making your loved ones home a centre of excellence.
