People living with dementia remain real people; husbands, wives, mothers, fathers, uncles and aunts, sisters and brothers. As a person increasingly struggles to make sense of the world around them, the unique individual known and loved can be overshadowed, with dementia being the first thing others see. With the right support it doesn’t have to be like this. The persons personality and character can be reconnected with, supporting residents and their families to still enjoy life together.
Avery Healthcare’s approach in their leading ReConnectR Programme enables the real person to shine through capturing the background and experiences of each resident through Life Story Work; their unique history, family, working life, hobbies and interests. They also work with families to establish a Playlist For Life with each resident, as music and its recollections can support well-being and reduce feelings of anxiety and distress. The programme means that Avery staff really know and understand each resident, which support truly person-centred care.
Dementia is not a destination, but a point in an individual’s life unique to them, where individuals can still experience, enjoy, participate, and forge new memories as well as recall those from earlier times. Someone living with dementia may not always recall your name, but they will remember how you made them feel. Up-to-date research drives comprehensive training for all Avery staff, so their teams understand how best to meet the needs of each resident living with different types of dementia; through meaningful occupation, purposeful engagement or opportunities for reminiscence.
