Improving care for older adults

Hello everyone,

We have four wards at Wishaw dedicated to caring for the older adult aged 65 and over. A number of the patients admitted to these wards can be affected by dementia, or confusion due to illness. Being in an unfamiliar environment can cause disorientation and frustration for our patients, cause upset to loved ones and can be challenging for the staff providing care.

We have introduced a daily activity group for these patients to try and reduce their frustration and anxieties and to help relieve boredom. A Reminiscence Pod has been used to transform one of our Day Rooms into a 1950’s Living Room and patients who are well enough are encouraged to attend the group.

The group is run by our Clinical Support Staff who provide personal grooming – hairdressing for the ladies and shaving for the gentlemen before starting a range of activities.

Activities include:

• Making bird feeders to hang in the trees in the adjoining courtyard – this provides physical activity as well as mental stimulation and some attendees enjoy watching the birds
• Singing along to songs of the era
• Playing Bingo
• Completing jigsaws and using memory jogger cards

Two sessions are held daily – one in the morning and one in the afternoon seven days a week. A maximum of eight patients can attend a group.

We hope to continue this initiative and are considering alternative Reminiscence settings such as a kitchen, or shed.

Staff and families have reported the group has been of great benefit for those attending. They have been stimulated by the activities and are much calmer when they return to the ward.

If you, or someone you know want to find out more about dementia you can speak to your GP, visit Alzheimer Scotland website www.alzscot.org or call the 24 hour Dementia Helpline on Freephone 0808 808 3000.