As the care sector endures ever increasing pressure to respond to the COVID crisis, care home professionals across England have welcomed a new service as ‘invaluable support and a listening ear at the time of greatest need’.
Lockdown and isolation from family members have seen a detrimental effect on the health and wellbeing of people living with dementia and urgent support has been provided by Dementia Support UK from HammondCare, which is funded by Innovate UK
The service provides free access to immediate support and expert guidance for relatives, carers and health professionals to help carers cope with behaviours and symptoms which have worsened during the pandemic.
Ed Russell, Deputy Chief Executive, WCS Care, a specialist care provider, said:
“At a time of increased pressure for care homes, carers and residents have felt the impact of a pause on family visits to the homes. And while we have alternative ways to ensure loved ones stay in touch, such as pre-arranged window visits, video calls and compassionate garden visits, for people with dementia the change in routine can cause anxiety and stress.
“Having additional guidance and support available at the end of the phone through Dementia Support UK – which complements the tools we already provide carers to support residents – gives our teams valuable acknowledgement of the work they’re already doing, while providing useful insight and new approaches to try. Our teams have warmly welcomed this virtual pair of helping hands.”
Executive Director of the National Care Forum, Vic Rayner, said:
While many care homes have specialist staff, they are taking the opportunity to have a detailed peer-to-peer discussion and examine new approaches to support their residents. The consultants on the end of the phone from Dementia Support UK are working with care home teams to provide personal and tailored, non-pharmacological support telephone consultations and follow up video conferencing.
David Moore, Dementia Lead for Methodist Homes Association commented:
“COVID-19 has made it an extremely difficult time for health and social care and in particular for those living with dementia, their families and the care staff who sup-port them. Because of this the need for Dementia Support UK has never been more important. Their valuable knowledge, guidance and person-centred approach will enhance the lives of many people with dementia living in care homes across the country.”
Associate Professor Colm Cunningham, Director of Dementia Centre, HammondCare said:
“The global pandemic has really challenged care homes supporting people living with dementia because of the limitations on activities and engagement opportunities. Enquiries to the service, in its first weeks of launch, indicate that residents have been affected by the lack of family visits and the change of routine in their care setting. Social distancing has changed their lives and caused an increase in stress, confusion and behaviour issues. Family members have found it difficult to cope too, especially as they see the changes on video calls but feel powerless to help.
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“As we move into an era of social distancing the extra support will help staff, solve problems and give them confidence. Our consultants are there to offer advice and support and share their extensive knowledge of dementia-related behaviours. We are a listening ear and additional support to help them offer the best care.”
Staff from care homes, relatives, GPs and other social and health care professionals who are working with a resident living with dementia and would like to access further help and support can make an enquiry online 24/7 at dementiasupportuk.org.
