Don’t let the press scare you - residential care homes are centres of excellence in elderly dementia care
The current crisis in the care system, so well publicised in the media at present, can make the position look grim. Believe every story you read and you could easily be forgiven for never wanting to set foot in a care home ever again. But this would be to do the many skilled, and highly dedicated, people who work in the care industry a major injustice.
Good quality dementia residential care from a well-managed provider who has invested both time and money into developing personalised care models, based upon sound research and established good practice, can significantly improve the quality of life for both the patient and their family.
Well designed dementia care homes can tackle isolation and boost independence.
Specialist dementia care homes that have been designed and decorated with the needs of older people in mind can provide a much safer and more stimulating environment than that of an individual’s own home.
Accessibility aids (such as lifts to upper storeys, or adapted bathrooms) and specialist decorating techniques (such as strongly contrasting colours to make pathways clearer, or specific task lighting) can make both the building itself and the equipment within it more accessible, and offer new opportunities for social engagement.
Specialist residential care can provide stimulation, and enhance wellbeing.
Well organised care homes will provide a whole range of activities, memory aids, and group therapies simply not available to an individual in their own home. Removing the boredom and isolation faced by so many older people living alone, a lively care home environment can provide opportunities for stimulation and engagement to help people enjoy their days.
Support for family members
And the benefits are not reserved for the older person alone. Relieved of the stress and strain of providing constant physical care, family members are once again free to enjoy quality time with their loved one, engaging with them in activities and reminiscence, and creating precious memories together.
Good quality residential dementia care is out there, so don’t despair!
It’s a sad fact that the many care homes out there providing outstanding, compassionate care day in, day out, simply don’t attract the attention of the media. That’s a real shame. So don’t allow those shocking headlines of neglect or abuse put you off. Do your research, plan ahead, and you’ll find the perfect care home for you.
Cavendish Care Home is a Specialist dementia care home for the elderly in Gloucester.
Our caring community provides a warm, friendly atmosphere for people living with dementia, in a carefully designed dementia-friendly environment to make everyday living enjoyable and purposeful.
We offer a Day care service as well as respite, residential and end of life care. We’d love to show you around, so please give us a ring on 01452 521896 to ask any questions you may have and to arrange a visit.