Compassionate care for patients with dementia

Compassionate care for patients with dementia

When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, it can feel as though the world tilts - slowly at first, then a little more each day. Families often describe it as losing someone in small, painful increments. That's why when it comes to caring for someone with dementia, every moment that a patient feels present and safe enough to engage is a moment that matters a little extra.

Since 2021, the Foundation has provided a total of seven grants to the Medical Specialty Unit, all of which have been used to make a meaningful impact on the care provided to patients with dementia. "I can't imagine how our unit would look without the grants awarded by the Foundation," says Lisa Lock, BSN, RN, clinical manager, Inpatient Medical Specialty Unit. "That funding gave us permission to think differently - to be innovative. We simply could not offer the same level of care without that support."

Thoughtful design

Most often, patients with dementia who are admitted to the Medical Specialty Unit are in transition. Their condition has progressed to a point where they can no longer live alone, or they need a higher level of care than their families can safely provide at home. The hospital becomes a temporary option until a permanent placement in a care facility can be arranged.

Adjusting to a new environment is challenging for anyone, but that's especially the case for patients with cognitive decline. That is why grant funding from the Foundation was used to make several environmental improvements:

• Decals were added to the doors of patients' rooms to help them identify their own space
• Decals of bookshelves were added to exit doors to deter use and create a home-like feel
• A skylight-style light fixture was added to the day room to provide bright, natural-looking light and calming outdoor imagery
• Recliners and laundry machines were added to the day room to make the space feel more comfortable

Meaningful activities

Andrea Frisch, MS, is a certified therapeutic recreation specialist (CTRS) who helps patients engage in therapeutic activities, either individually or as part of a group. As a result, she witnesses the impact of the Foundation's backing every day.

"By adding variety to options for leisure equipment and expanding programming, we can reach more patients in a way that works for them, and that's powerful," she says.

In the past few years, grant funds have allowed for the purchase of numerous supplies and equipment:

• Art supplies, including adaptive supplies that are easier to hold
• An old-fashioned record player
• Picture books and books with large print
• Lifelike robotic dolls and pets that provide emotional comfort and companionship

Most recently, a grant allowed for the purchase of a specialized tool called a Snoezelen machine, which is especially helpful for patients in the later stages of brain change. This portable device offers a range of sensory experiences, including fiber optic lights, a bubble machine, a projector, music, vibration and aromatherapy.

Andrea, who uses the machine to help patients relax or engage, often invites patients to choose the colors, sounds or sensations that feel most comforting. "Patients experiencing brain change can feel overwhelmed and confused, like they have no control. The machine empowers patients by inviting them to make choices that immediately impact their environment."

Ongoing education

Finally, since best practices in dementia care continue to evolve, ongoing training opportunities are essential. When patients become confused or frustrated, they may lash out at staff who are trying to help, which can put the safety of staff and patients at risk.

In March, a grant from the Foundation allowed the Medical Specialty Unit to bring in Sheri Fairman, a dementia care specialist who is certified through Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care, for a week of in-person training and direct care coaching.

This training provided strategies that caregivers could use to better identify and respond to unmet needs that patients with brain changes struggle to communicate.

A partner in patience care

These investments in the Medical Specialty Unit's physical space, activity-based tools and staff development help ensure that patients with dementia feel safe, respected and connected.

For families navigating the uncertainty of dementia, this kind of support from the Foundation offers reassurance that their loved ones are receiving high-quality, compassionate care, bringing patients in a difficult transition more moments of comfort and clarity that might otherwise be lost.

You can help fund projects like these with gift to the Vinger Alzheimer's and Dementia Fund.