Dementia care in action Anchor’s West Hall care home in West Byfleet provides specialist dementia care and support services. Activities Co-ordinator Tom Hoare works alongside a dedicated team to provide residents with tailored support that meets their individual needs, alongside activities that are well-balanced and meaningful. West Hall is designed to fit the specific requirements of people living with dementia, with display boxes outside each room that contain personal items so residents can easily identify their living space. Each floor also has a different colour scheme and there are tactile panels on the walls, acting as sensory guides to help residents navigate the care home and find their room. Knowing each resident’s individual needs and interests allows the care team to tailor meaningful engagement and focus on activities and objects that help recall specific memories. Sensory items are on hand to help reduce anxiety for individuals who become restless or simply need to keep their hands active. Tom plans activity schedules that allow residents to express themselves creatively and stimulate their mind, body and soul. Music is a particular favourite. Tom says, “The residents love when we play music or have a sing-along. Music allows them to really express themselves.” At West Hall, the care team aims to create a sense of community by offering a wide range of social activities and encouraging residents to interact and build friendships. Tom says “Having dementia can be a very isolating experience for both the families and the person experiencing it. This is why it’s so important that they feel part of a special family in the care home.” When it comes to designing care plans for residents, families are involved every step of the way. They’re asked about fond memories that staff can chat to residents about, as well as their loved one’s likes, dislikes and preferences, including subjects that might be sensitive or upsetting, so that staff can support distress and provide comfort when needed. At each monthly review, families are invited to provide input and feedback on changes suggested by the care team. Tom says “We try to get families as involved as possible because they know their loved ones best. The more they want to be involved, the better.” If residents experience any difficulties the West Hall care team spend time delving into the root of the issue and working towards a solution, whether that be working with the family, creating a rummage box to help unlock memories, or tweaking the activity schedule. The care team has had specialist training to meet the needs of all individuals. Tom says “Care homes provide a sense of community, staff who are trained in how to best look after you, and a safe environment that’s bespoke for your needs. We have the skills, knowledge and support behind us to help you manage the challenges of daily life.”
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