We work collaboratively with the ward MDT towards timely assessment of functional needs, rehabilitation goals, creating personalised care plans, onward referral or signposting to appropriate community support services including carer support.
This team may also support with mental capacity assessment and deprivation of liberty (DoLs) applications, advice about best interest decisions and discharge planning. The team will work with the ward and to provide support but does not lead on the patient’s overall care.
‘This is me’
We work with families / carers and nursing staff to create personalised care plans to be used whilst an inpatient on the wards to minimise distress and agitation, using the This is me document.
Therapeutic activities are available for use on wards - this can include word puzzles, board games, jigsaws and aqua paints specifically designed for adults with dementia. Speak to staff on your ward who can contact the dementia team directly for more information and advice on appropriate activities to support wellbeing and promote recovery.
Dementia friendly areas
Having dementia friendly areas include ensuring that clinical areas and bathrooms are clearly signposted in a dementia friendly style, supporting orientation to the space people are suing when they visit the hospital through use of colour and lighting. We have dementia friendly initiatives including ‘This is me’ document, and therapeutic activities.
Twiddlemuffs and blankets
Twiddlemuffs are knitted hand mitts with interesting tactile bits and bobs (e.g. buttons, ribbon, beads) attached inside and out for people who are agitated or anxious to twiddle in their hands. They are designed to stimulate the senses and the brain whilst keeping 'restless hands' busy and snug!
We are always happy for volunteers to knit or crochet Twiddlemuffs and blankets for our patients. We have found that the muffs can help to decrease agitation and anxiety levels and it is part of The Dementia Team's ongoing projects to promote wellbeing and dementia awareness.
Please contact the team if you are interested in supporting this project or donating materials at
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