Stamford care home receives reward for dedication to dementia care
When I get older
July 29, 2012 | By Jackie Brook |
Whitefriars Care Home in Stamford
The recent BBC programme When I Get Older has raised some interesting issues about dementia, the cost of elderly care and life in a care home.
The programme followed four elderly celebrities who moved in with pensioners at home and then also experienced life in a care home to help better understand the lives of older people in today’s society.
But for one care home in Stamford its continued commitment into the provision of dementia and elderly care for their residents has resulted in success.
Whitefriars, part of the Orders of St John Care Trust, is the first care home within the Trust to receive a dementia accreditation as part of its internal audit tool.
The tool measures performance across a number of areas, including personalised care and support, management of medication, prevention and control of infection and staff training. There is also a specific section relating to dementia care.
In order to meet the criteria outlined in the audit, which has received approval from Dementia UK, Whitefriars care home has implemented a series of initiatives that provide both choice and fulfillment to each resident.
Home manager Helen Finlay, said. “Our focus is on providing a home from home environment for our residents and delivering individualised care to each person.
“Our person-centred care plans help us to really get to know each resident, their families and their past lives much better, enabling us to enhance their day to day living.
“Regular communication with friends and family members is very important to ensure they understand the impact of dementia on their relative or friend. We also have the support of two Admiral Nurses which has proved very beneficial, particularly in providing support for families and also for our staff.
“We are committed to reducing the number of residents using antipsychotic drugs in the home and work closely with the local GP to review these medications on a regular basis.”
The home’s activities coordinator, Sarah Turner-Daffern is responsible for offering our residents a diverse range of activities, as well as providing opportunities for the residents to maintain and learn new skills and interests, including cooking and gardening.
Speaking about her role, Sarah said: “It is very important for me that the residents I look after are consulted to better understand them and find out more about their likes and dislikes, so I can deliver an activity programme that suits their individual needs and abilities.
“Initiatives such as reminiscence sessions, doll therapy and sensory-based activities including aromatherapy and massage are key to the ongoing development of care we provide to our residents.”
The home is also looking to introduce a 1950’s themed room, and is calling on the local community to donate any old fashioned furniture or artifacts.
Helen added: “Themed rooms are a great comfort to residents with dementia and also help them to recall past memories.
“We’re calling on the community to dig out and donate any old-fashioned and nostalgic household items to help us make the room a real trip down memory lane.”
