Dementia is a long-term condition that affects a number of cognitive functions, including speech and memory loss. With expert care and attention, those living with dementia can continue to live their lives to the fullest while participating in their favourite activities. A well-equipped care home will present its residents with an abundance of opportunities to assist them in maintaining their sense of self and independence for as long as possible.
As described by The Alzeimers Society, the word 'dementia' describes ‘a set of symptoms that over time can affect memory, problem-solving, language and behaviour’. Dementia is a progressive condition, meaning that typically, symptoms may present themselves mildly at first, but worsen over time. Dementia is caused when a disease damages nerve cells in the brain. Depending on the disease that causes damage, this will determine the type of dementia a person has.
There are many types of dementia with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common.
A care home offering dementia care will present residents with a home that has been exclusively designed with dementia-friendly decor; using large clocks, large clear signage and colour coding around the home for example. This can make a significant difference to the quality of life of someone experiencing symptoms associated with dementia. From the colour scheme and the background noise, down to the cutlery used during meal times, there is so much that can be done to help residents living with dementia feel relaxed and comfortable in a care home environment.
Although every resident living with dementia will require a level of care and support depending on their progression, many care homes encourage residents to live as independently as possible; paying attention to the little things in the home, therefore, will benefit those who get easily distracted or stressed from their environment.
There are a number of activities that residents can get involved in around a care home.
Most of the below can also be carried out in an outdoor environment.
We provide dementia care in our dedicated, bespoke Poppy Unit, which is fully equipped and designed to enable us to provide the highest quality care to those with dementia. All of our team receive ongoing dementia and Alzheimer’s training, which covers the essential information and abilities required of all health and social care professionals, with a focus on understanding, awareness, and relationship building. This training ensures our staff has the up-to-date knowledge and skills that are appropriate to the various stages of dementia. We work hard to ensure that each resident enjoys the little things in life, helping them to get the most out of their stay, and we take pride in providing the highest level of care and respect to each and every one of them.
Set within our dementia-friendly home, our carers and activity coordinators go above and beyond, collaborating with dementia residents and their loved ones to identify activities and therapies that are appropriate for their specific needs and to help them thrive, as we recognise the benefits of living a content life for those living with a life-changing condition. Our primary goal is to make each resident feel relaxed and at home in their new residence, as well as to supply them with anything they require.
Here at Hazelwood Care Home, we support our residents with dementia by creating an activities programme that is accessible, considerate and underpinned by dementia research. We are able to incorporate all of the activities listed above, as well as offer:
On the first floor of our home, we have a sensory room that is used exclusively by our residents with dementia, as it proves to have benefits in developing communication skills, improving focus, and providing a calming atmosphere.
Dementia Friendly Walk in Mote Park. Hosted by Age UK, this walk has been specifically designed to stimulate all the senses, the new walk provides a safe, enjoyable route around the park for those living with dementia and their carers. Residents of Hazelwood Care Home can reach this park in approximately 30 minutes by car.
‘Forget Me Not’ cafes are spread across the Sevenoaks District, and offer companionship over a cuppa, peer support and entertaining activities for people living with memory loss. Residents can access this support group monthly and is approximately 30 minutes by car.
We work hard to ensure that our garden is a beautiful environment that our residents want to go to to get fresh air and some vitamin D, and also invite their relatives to enjoy too.
If you would like to speak with a member of our team about the Dementia Care we provide, our friendly staff would be glad to assist you in any way they can. To contact us, call 01474 573 800, send an email to info@hazelwoodcarehome.com, or fill out our online Enquiry Form. We look forward to speaking with you.
