Dementia and us
There are over 150 diseases that may cause dementia. The most common causes of dementia include Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia and Lewy bodies dementia.
Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Dementia is not a normal part of aging and therefore we need to have a different approach for each person we care for living with dementia.
Each person with dementia is unique, and therefore have differing symptoms and triggers. Therefore, our approach to caring for people living with Dementia must be personalised and fluid.
Our first priority
It’s about you. We aim to build genuine connections from the moment we first meet, then we grow and nurture this relationship over time.
Our aim is to learn to know YOU. We will try to understand your personal preferences, your normal routine, your interests, likes and dislikes by establishing connections with both you and those closet to you. By collecting this information, we remove the disease aspect and are able to build an environment that is personal and meaningful to you so you feel at home, familiar, comfortable and able to live your best life whilst in our care.
Our BEST L.I.F.E. principals
Our “BEST L.I.F.E” principal stands for Living | Individualism | Fulfillment | Engagement.
This model of care is primarily where a person’s whole life is considered and how each aspect interacts with every area and function of our home.
You are at the centre, and we focus on making life normal and meaningful.
The principals live in our people.
Our people
Working effectively with people living with dementia requires a unique set of skills, qualities, and attributes.
Firstly, we carefully choose the right people to look after you. If they have the right natural attributes, then we get to work to upskill them through accredited dementia care training courses and our 17-week mentoring program.
Empathy: so they can understand and share your feelings.
Patience: so they remain calm and composed in challenging situations, understanding that you may take more time to communicate or complete tasks.
Flexibility and adaptability: so they are ready to adapt along your journey with dementia.
Respect for Autonomy: so they can assist you to keep being you, promoting your independence and decision-making whenever possible.
Compassionate Listening: so they can allow you to express yourself and understand your needs.
Creativity: so they’re able to engage individuals in creative and stimulating activities that cater to your interests and cognitive abilities.
Positive Attitude: so they bring an optimistic demeanor to support and uplift you.
Dignity and Respect: so they uphold your dignity and respect your valuable life experiences, treating you as unique.
Knowledge of Dementia: we continually develop our understanding of dementia, its various forms, and the specific challenges individuals may face in different stages of the condition so we can better address your needs.
Person-Centered Approach: we are committed to providing care that is tailored to your unique preferences, history, and needs.
Team Collaboration: so we can effectively deliver the best holistic care for you, whether that be through internal communications during shift changes, partnering with your team of healthcare professionals, or involving your family members and loved ones.
Effective Communication: using non-verbal cues, we aim to adapt our communication styles to your needs and abilities.
Problem-Solving Skills: so we can identify and address challenges creatively, find solutions that enhance your wellbeing.
Cultural Sensitivity: so we not only respect but grow our awareness of a wide range of diverse cultural backgrounds, considering your individual preferences and customs, so life remains as normal as possible.
Our mentoring program grows our Best Life Ambassadors, who proudly wear their badge and inspire their teams to drive meaning and purpose in your life.
Settling in to your new home
Our Warm Welcome:
Before admission you will have been given documents to complete so we can have an understanding of you , What and Who is important in your life and what brings you joy . We will orientate you to the home so that you feel safe and comfortable and familiar with the surroundings.
Your Familiar Surroundings:
We acknowledge you have your familiar routine and it can take some time to settle in to a new environment. We work hard to adapt our spaces, addressing your individual preferences and continue your routine so you feel a sense of familiarity and comfort.
Engaging Activities:
Using the information we’ve gathered prior, we will review your assessments ensuring we meet both your care needs and preferences. We will develop your care plan with your help and those closest to you so that we not only capture your care needs but your personal interests and what is important to you to be able to live your best life with us.
Family Involvement:
We encouraging family visits and involvement in care plans to maintain a strong support network. Our spaces are designed for gatherings and genuine connections.
Additional support
Your Community:
Enjoy participating in community events and activities that aim to enrich your life. We build a team around you and help you grow genuine connections with fellow residents through group activities and communal sharing.
Nutritious Dining:
We acknowledge that tastes change during your journey with Dementia. Enjoy a well-balanced, personalised meal plan that we constantly review with you and your family.
Staying well:
You’ll have access to visiting Allied Health clinicians and enjoy our robust wellness programs designed for positive ageing.
A calm environment:
We offer a quiet and calm space for you to live, minimizing noise and distractions to reduce any potential stress.
Tips for living better with Dementia
Establish Routines and Simplify Tasks:
Adaptation: Create visual cues or written reminders for daily routines and tasks, like using a calendar or a whiteboard for schedules.
Tip: Break tasks into simpler steps and practice gentle prompts to assist with completing activities. Establishing consistent routines can provide a sense of structure and comfort.
Create a Supportive Environment:
Adaptation: Ensure clear pathways, remove tripping hazards, and label essential items or areas in the living space for easy identification.
Tip: Use color contrasts to help distinguish important objects or areas such as a darker colored toilet seat and signage with familiar symbols. Keep the environment calm and well-lit to reduce confusion and anxiety.
Encourage Engagement and Stimulation:
Adaptation: Create engaging activities tailored to unique interests, like puzzles, music, art, or reminiscence therapy.
Tip: Involve them in simple, enjoyable tasks that stimulate cognitive function. These activities can enhance mood, cognition, and overall well-being.
Effective Communication Strategies:
Adaptation: Practice clear and simple language, maintain eye contact, and allow time for processing and responding during conversations.
Tip: Focus on non-verbal cues, gestures, and facial expressions to convey emotions. Be patient and offer reassurance to foster effective communication.
Focus on Emotional Well-being and Social Connections:
Adaptation: Be social and foster more social interactions with family, friends, or support groups through regular visits, phone calls, or video chats.
Tip: Participate in group activities or outings, as social connections and emotional support contribute significantly to your overall happiness and quality of life.
Myth-Busting
Myth: Dementia means the end of a fulfilling life.
Our Reality: People living with dementia can lead rich, meaningful lives with proper support and engagement.
Myth: Memory loss is the only symptom of dementia.
Our Reality: Dementia involves a range of symptoms, and our care approach addresses each individual's unique needs.
Myth: Nothing can be done to improve the quality of life for someone with dementia.
Our Reality: We focus on personalized care plans, engaging activities, and a supportive environment to enhance well-being.
More Resources
Dementia Australia:
National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, or visit our website at dementia.org.au
Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission:
Phone: 1800 951 822 Online: agedcarequality.gov.au