Dementia Care
Morar is dedicated to providing a warm and welcoming home for individuals living with dementia. We recognize that dementia manifests differently for each person, and we are here to guide you in taking the next step, whether it’s for yourself or a loved one.
Our friendly and inclusive environment offers spaces that facilitate social interaction and easy movement, understanding the significance of these aspects. To assist individuals, we have signage in place to help them navigate our surroundings.
Our primary goal is to empower people living with dementia to maintain as much independence as possible and continue participating in their daily activities. We tailor activities to each individual’s capabilities, ensuring they can lead fulfilling lives.
We understand that making choices can be challenging, so during mealtimes, we provide visual options, allowing individuals to make choices about what they eat when it’s served. We also offer physical support for those who need assistance with eating, along with specialized mealtime equipment to promote independence.
Our homes feature beautiful gardens, recognizing the importance of spending time outdoors. These spaces are designed to be safe and secure.
If you choose to reside in a Morar home, we conduct assessments to gain a comprehensive understanding of the support you require. We also engage in discussions about decision-making, especially for individuals who may lack decision-making capacity.
Dementia Care: An Introduction
Dementia is a progressive brain disorder that gradually impairs memory, thinking, and behavior. It is a common condition, affecting over 55 million people worldwide. While there is no cure for dementia, there are treatments that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
What is Dementia Care?
Dementia care is a specialised field of healthcare that focuses on providing support and care to individuals living with dementia. It encompasses a wide range of services, including:
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Medical care: This includes managing the underlying medical conditions that can contribute to dementia, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.
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Psychosocial care: This includes addressing the emotional and behavioral challenges that can arise from dementia, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation.
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Rehabilitation: This includes helping individuals with dementia maintain their independence and function as well as possible.
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Support for caregivers: This includes providing emotional support, respite care, and information and education about dementia.
The Person-Centered Approach to Dementia Care
The most effective approach to dementia care is the person-centered approach. This approach focuses on understanding the individual’s unique needs, preferences, and values. It also emphasises providing care that is respectful, compassionate, and promotes dignity.
Key Principles of Person-Centered Dementia Care
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Know the person: Take the time to get to know the individual with dementia, including their interests, hobbies, and life history.
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Communicate effectively: Communicate in a way that is clear, simple, and sensitive to the person’s cognitive abilities.
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Create a supportive environment: Minimise distractions and provide a safe, comfortable, and familiar environment.
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Promote independence: Encourage the person to participate in activities that they enjoy and are able to do on their own.
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Respect individual choices: Allow the person to make choices about their care, as much as possible.
The Role of Technology in Dementia Care
Technology is increasingly being used to support individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. There are a variety of tools available, such as:
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Memory aids: These can help individuals with dementia remember important information, such as appointments, important dates, and medication schedules.
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Navigation aids: These can help individuals with dementia find their way around their homes and communities.
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Communication tools: These can help individuals with dementia communicate their needs and preferences.
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Monitoring systems: These can help caregivers track the person’s activity and ensure their safety.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Intervention
Early diagnosis of dementia is important for a number of reasons. It allows for early intervention to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. It also gives the individual and their family time to plan for the future.
