There are many advantages of residential dementia care homes. These facilities are usually dual-registered and accept residents with both personal care and nursing needs. This ensures that a resident doesn’t have to change residences if their needs change. The residences are often specifically designed to meet the needs of residents with dementia, and they have trained staff who can assist with tasks such as household cleaning and utility bills. This ensures that residents don’t have to worry about daily chores, and can enjoy the company of other residents and take part in organised activities, for more information visit us.
Advantages of residential dementia care homes
Aside from the costs, residential dementia care homes offer a more personal setting. In the case of dementia or illness, a person living alone is less safe. A residential facility can provide the same level of safety and well-being, as well as provide companionship and social stimulation. While living alone can be stressful and depressing, dementia care homes can provide a welcoming atmosphere where residents can make new friends.
The most significant advantage of residential care is cost. Although it is much more expensive than in-home care, the cost is usually all-inclusive, and staff members are available around the clock. However, residential care can be difficult for some families. A care home’s prices can also make it difficult for the family to afford it. In some cases, the individual will be assessed as needing residential care and undergo a means test. In addition, moving into a new environment can be unsettling, and the resident may miss the familiarity of familiar surroundings.
Living conditions of residents
A new study of the living conditions of residential dementia care homes in the UK focuses on the design of the homes, comparing different styles and characteristics. The research used a design audit checklist developed by the Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC). The survey included postal questionnaires sent to facility managers and looked at the level of compliance with the DSDC’s essential design criteria. This research also compared residential care homes to nursing homes and identified which types of homes failed to meet most of the DSDC design criteria.
Many communities have been built using environmental standards. These standards state that design is not just about sculpting the physical environment but also involves changing the way professional staff engage with those with dementia. The facility uses technology and a variety of design elements to help residents deal with daily problems. Its innovative design also incorporates the use of ‘Smart Rooms’ to promote the well-being of its residents.
Staffing levels at residential dementia care homes
The lack of staffing in UK care homes has become a major topic of concern in recent years. The growing complexity of care needs, budget cuts and vacancies have all had an impact on the sector. Staffing levels in care homes can be difficult to meet, and many do not receive the required training. However, staffing in residential dementia care homes is a crucial part of the provision of high-quality care.
Fortunately, the government has made dementia care a top priority over the last five years. In March 2012, David Cameron set a ‘national challenge’ to make major improvements in dementia care by the year 2015, which was later extended to 2020. However, the ‘national challenge’ has had little effect on the poorest-performing care homes – despite an estimated 90 per cent prevalence of dementia.