Special help for people with Dementia
A pilot project launched in Stratford last month is already helping 14 people with dementia to remain in their own homes.
Eight specially trained carers are providing the new Warwickshire County Council service, offering person-centred support to 14 individuals at home. If the scheme is successful, it could eventually be rolled out across the county, helping some people diagnosed with dementia to avoid residential care or hospitalisation for longer.
The Stratford area has relatively high numbers of people with dementia already and significant increases are predicted over the next few years, as the population ages. Across Warwickshire, the number of over-85s is set to rise by more than a third within a decade, and the number of people with dementia is forecast to increase by a quarter. The county’s care services are already struggling to cope with the increased demand.
“Most people want to stay in their own homes as they get older and support is available to help them,” said Zoe Bogg, Local Provider Services Manager. “However, the Stratford pilot project is new and different because it has been specially developed for people with dementia, who have different or additional support needs.”
Zoe explained that the service was less task-orientated than traditional home care. “It’s more about holistic support and the person’s overall wellbeing,” she said. “We are using reminiscence therapy, for example, and looking at how technology can help make life easier and safer for people living at home with dementia. Routine and continuity are important factors so, as far as possible, they see the same carer every time.”
The people receiving dementia care at home were referred to the six-month pilot project by Warwickshire’s social work team and are a mix of new and existing care service users, with varying levels of dementia. The project care team has been trained to deal with all aspects of the condition including repetitive behaviour, aggression and confusion.
“The aim is to prevent some people with dementia from going into a home or being admitted to hospital, both of which can increase confusion and aggression. We want to help them retain their independence and quality of life,” said Zoe.
The project is being carefully monitored and thoroughly recorded. There will be a quality review after three months.