As we prepare for the festive season ahead and all that it entails, we must also be mindful of those for whom this time of year can be a bit of challenge.
AgeCare Care Homes is founded on the belief that all residents are entitled to a rich quality of life, with the opportunity to live as independently as possible. This includes providing the highest level of dementia care for those residents with cognitive decline and at this time of year we are even more committed to ensuring those in our care can all enjoy the joy and spirit of this special time.
To enhance the knowledge and understanding of dementia, earlier this year we introduced our staff to Virtual Dementia Training, (VDT), an innovative method that allows us to experience what dementia might be like and help improve the support we can give on a day-to-day basis.
This has allowed us further insight into how to ensure the festive season is the best experience possible for those in our care with dementia.
The key is ‘keep it simple’.
In our homes we try to avoid the addition of overly bright or flashing lights, instead keeping things calmer with warm, subtle Christmas lighting and other elements our residents are already familiar with.
Too much change is disruptive and unsettling for those with dementia and it is important that we stick to our daily routines, mealtimes, bedtimes and activities at the usual times during the day. Providing quiet spaces is even more important when there is a lot going on in the home, so we set aside a room where there are no decorations or noise, a familiar space to feel calm.
Contrasting colour can help provide visual clues, so our table settings and room settings are set out with this in mind. Familiar spaces and objects are kept the same amongst the decorations so as to avoid disorientation and confusion.
We know that families and friends make an extra effort to visit over the festive period, and we welcome this. However, too many visitors can be overwhelming so it is important that we know who is coming and when so we can let our residents know, prepare them for the visit and ensure groups are kept small.
This time of year is one for enjoying familiar moments and traditions and it is these that bring joy and comfort, memories of happy times and special company. A favourite film, a festive culinary treat or a well-known song can help put those with dementia at ease, creating a comfortable familiarity.
Too much noise can be distracting and unsettling, we provide space for families to meet their loved one where there is limited background noise and we encourage visitors to avoid multiple conversations and try to talk one at a time.
Our intention is that all our staff and all our visitors can focus on creating a joyful and happy time for our residents coping with dementia, where interactions will be positive and memorable.
