Dementia Care Focus

With good advice, careful consideration and a person-centred approach choosing the right care for someone with dementia can help them live well. With almost a million people living with dementia in the UK, and that set to increase by around forty per cent by 2030 the condition is often referred to as the UK’s biggest health and social care crisis. But with good care people suffering from dementia can live good lives.

Dementia

Dementia is a syndrome, a group of related symptoms, and it is mainly associated with the decline of certain brain functions which include memory loss, but also includes thinking speed, mood, movement, understanding and others. Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common types of dementia along with vascular dementia but there are numerous others.

Understanding their needs

Many people who suffer from dementia have complex needs, which range from the need to feel safe, to the need to take medication properly and regularly to the need to maintain their dignity and to maintain their selfhood. Any dementia care needs to focus on meeting these needs and any other needs that are specific to the individual.

Research care options

When considering care options family members need to undertake extensive research into what help is available. This can begin with support to live at home through to living in a care or nursing home. If you have been helping someone live independently or semi independently but as symptoms have worsened a needs assessment will be required from social services. Your local GP is a good place to begin this process and seek advice, guidance and support.

Evaluate facilities and services

Dementia sufferers have extensive needs but there is help out there. Care homes are assessed by the Care Quality Commission and the most recent report is a good place for families to access an initial assessment.

Location and facilities

The location of a care facility can have an impact on the ability of someone with dementia to live well, and being close to friends and family can have a massive impact on their health. However, because dementia requires higher levels of specialist care whether there is an appropriate care or nursing home with the facilities to care for people is also an important factor. Consider cost and funding

The cost of caring for someone with dementia can be considerably higher than for those without it. There should be 24-hour cover, with specific trained staff who understand dementia and can create and implement a care plan to help your loved ones live well and be happy. This specialist care makes dementia care cost relatively high. There is financial assistance out there, but this is often means tested. Your local GP will be able to offer advice and put you in touch with care specialists to allow informed decision making. Choosing the right care for your loved one involves many factors but if they are able, it should involve the person with dementia as much as possible so they can live their best life.

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