The Challenge of Dementia
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Transcript of The Challenge of Dementia
The Challenge of Dementia
Jackie O’Toole RPN, MSc (dementia)
Overview
– The objective of my presentation is to reflect on the complexities of dementia through these considerations:
– Information around dementia
– Best practice in dementia care
– What is needed to provide a person-centred approach in this area
Information– Over past five years we have become more informed about
dementia
– We have listened to the individual on a dementia journey and learned about his/her lived experience
– We have gained a greater understanding about the workings of the brain
– We realise that the ‘personhood’ (or essence) of the person remains
– We know that individuals on a dementia journey retain human capabilities; the ability to feel emotions, to make choices and to live a wonderful quality of life
The Human Brain– We know that the brain has two hemispheres
– Each hemisphere contains 5 lobes
– Each with differing functions
– Currently there are 150-200 different forms of dementia with Alzheimer’s Disease being the most common form.
– The clinical presentation of the differing dementia is caused by the damage to the particular area of the brain.
Dementia in Ireland
Irish National Dementia Strategy
– Better Awareness and Understanding
– Timely diagnosis and intervention
– Education and training for GPs
– Guidance around medication management
– Education around modifiable lifestyle risk factors
– Integrated services, supports and care for PWD
– Training and Education
– Leadership
Independent and Assisted Living
– Retaining independence for as long as possible
– Suitable housing for assisted living
– Adaptations within current residential setting:
signage, re-arrangement of furniture, removal
of hazards
– Appropriate use of assistive technology
Assistive Technology –atdementia.org.uk
Prompting
– Date and Time
– Item Locator
– Medication reminder
– Voice Reminder
– Signs and Notices
– Activity Assessment and activity guides
Leisure
– Computer aids
– TV, Radio
– Books, Photographs
– Reminiscence items
– Games
Assistive Technology –atdementia.org.uk
Communication
– Intercoms
– Telephones
– Other communication aids
Safety
– Personal alarms
– Pressure mats and cushions
– Monitors that measure gas, smoke, lighting, temperature, flood
– Fall and wandering detectors
Best Practice in Dementia
Kitwood-Psychological NeedsRef: Dementia Reconsidered 1997
Best practice– Early diagnosis
– Medication
– Cognitive Stimulation Therapy
– Maintaining life pattern
– Continuance of past hobbies and interests for as long as possible
– Supportive and empowering relationships
– Communication –no contradicting, correcting or lengthy questions
– Understanding around behaviour as form of communication
What is needed?– Recognition of the value of human life
– Recognition of retained abilities rather than emphasis on deficits
– Gathering of Individual’s life-story material
– Acceptance of clinical presentation from those living around us
– Vital for individual to feel respected
– Opportunities to live a wonderful quality of life
What is needed?– Supportive care from home-care providers
– Respite care – day centres, short residential stays
– Care for the carers
– Sharing of the care
– Contact GP, PHN if you are concerned about failing memory
– Contact with the voluntary agencies;
– www.alzheimer.ie
– www.familycarers.ie
What is needed?
– Appropriate residential care when time is right
– Residential care that caters for spiritual needs
– Suitable activities and stimulation
– Continuity of connection with religious community