Phyllis Tuckwell Supports Patients With Dementia

 Phyllis Tuckwell has  introduced ‘The Story of Me’ boards to the bedside of all beds on the IPU, which capture details about each patient. This helps staff get to know all of their patients, but is particularly important for those who may not be able to communicate this information to staff, such as those with dementia.

Dementia affects many people, making it harder for them to remember certain things, think clearly and carry out everyday activities.  Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care, which provides supportive and end of life care for patients and families living with an advanced or terminal illness such as cancer, has adapted its care for patients with dementia, to help calm and reassure them, and keep them safe.

Over the last year, Phyllis Tuckwell staff have received specialist training on dementia awareness, including specific techniques on how best to help people with dementia, enabling them to provide individualised care to patients with these specific needs. Its Education, Learning & Development team has also given training to other local Health Care Providers on advance care planning for patients with dementia.

Staff at the Hospice have also looked at ways to make their In-Patient Unit (IPU) more tailored to patients with dementia. Its MAPLE room, which stands for Memory Assist for Patients LifE, has been decorated in relaxing colours to create a tranquil environment for patients with heightened levels of anxiety, and has day and night indicator clocks to aid orientation, and lighting improvements which create a relaxing and soothing atmosphere.

It has also introduced ‘The Story of Me’ boards to the bedside of all beds on the IPU, which capture details about each patient, such as the name they prefer to be known by, details about their childhood, what their favourite books or films are, and what makes them happy, anxious or upset. This helps staff get to know all of their patients, but is particularly important for those who may not be able to communicate this information to staff, such as those with dementia.

Patients with dementia often feel happier being cared for at home, in familiar surroundings and with loved ones nearby. Phyllis Tuckwell’s Care at Home team cares for around 2,000 patients in their own homes every year, including patients with dementia, enabling them to remain in the place where they feel most comfortable.

“We understand the needs of patients who are living with dementia, and the concerns of their loved ones, and work hard to ensure that they feel as comfortable and reassured as possible” said Jayne Holland, Director of Patient Services at Phyllis Tuckwell. “By offering them individualised care at home and at the Hospice, we are able to give them a choice about where they would like to be cared for and to spend their last days.”