According to Alzheimer’s Research UK, nearly 600 people develop dementia every day in the UK. There are different forms of dementia – the most common being Alzheimer’s Disease and vascular dementia – and the type a person suffers from will dictate the level of care they need.

Caring for a loved one with dementia at home can be a rewarding experience, but as a person’s care needs increase, carers/relatives can often be left feeling physically and mentally exhausted when trying to balance looking after their loved one as well as managing the demands of their own lives.

Making the decision to move a relative into care can be daunting, but there are many advantages that ultimately benefit both the person living with dementia as well as the people around them – particularly in homes that specifically cater for people with dementia.

Below are just a few benefits that a dementia care specialist nursing home, such as St Peter’s Court in Maldon, can offer:

Dementia care specialists

Quite simply, the teams that work in specialist dementia care/nursing homes are experts in their field. The qualified and experienced staff understand the significance of the condition, but they also know that life doesn’t stop with the diagnosis, which is demonstrated via their pro-active approach to the care they provide. Part of the Angelic Care Group, the recently fully renovated St. Peter’s Court is the first Assistant Practitioner home in Essex; offering first-class in-house training for nurses and carers of dementia patients.

Risk prevention

People living with dementia have a higher risk of having a trip or fall, which can be worrying for relatives and can result in serious injuries – particularly if a person lives at home on their own. In a dementia care specialist home, these risks are greatly reduced; the rooms and layout are carefully designed with dementia sufferers in mind, and care staff are around 24/7 to help should anyone take a tumble or need assistance in other areas, such as moving from one place to another or getting dressed.

The personal touch

The highly trained staff at a dementia specialist care home understand the impact that dementia can have on the resident as well as the people around them, so they approach all aspects of care with sensitivity and understanding – and also make sure that everyone receives a warm welcome, whether they are a resident, family member or friend. As dementia care specialists, they also recognise that all cases are unique, and therefore tailored care plans are created for each resident to ensure that their comfort, happiness and safety are paramount, whilst also encouraging them to maintain as much independence as possible.

Combatting loneliness and isolation

Dementia can develop faster when people are isolated or lonely, so living in a care home environment where the staff are specifically trained to spot the first signs of common concerns linked to dementia – such as loneliness or depression – actively combats these potential issues. There is always someone around to talk to – whether it’s one of the caring staff (St. Peter’s Court in particular benefits from a high carer to resident ratio) or one of the other residents, it’s easier to remain socially active in a care home setting, without it being an overwhelming experience. Family and friends are welcome to visit, too – so relatives can catch up with their loved one over a cuppa in one of the light and airy lounges.

Keeping active

In line with Age UK advice that keeping busy is an important part of living well with dementia, remaining active is central to the care provided at many dementia care specialist care homes. As well as the benefits of a person’s mental and physical health, it’s also an excellent opportunity to meet other residents who have similar interests and maintain social interaction. St. Peter’s Court has a designated Activity Coordinator and a whole host of activities on offer – including arts and crafts, quiz nights, tabletop games, music and animal therapy to name but a few – so there are lots to keep residents busy!

Peace of mind

Last, but not least, families can be reassured that their loved one is safe, comfortable and receiving the best possible care at a specialist dementia care/nursing home. Nursing and care staff are on hand 24 hours a day, so loved ones can continue to enjoy life in a safe, environment and relatives have far fewer sleepless nights! The warm and dedicated staff will work with new residents and their families to ensure their move is a smooth and happy one, and families can be sure that their loved one’s happiness, safety and wellbeing is their top priority.

Sources: Age UK, Alzheimer’s Research.org