Excellence in Dementia Care at Orchard

Almost everyone of us  knows someone with some sort of Dementia. This progressive disease that affects the brain and leads to loss of memory, mood swings and problems with communicating is on the increase.  It is predicted that by the middle of this century there will be more than 1.7 million sufferers in the UK alone¹  and the need for specialist care will be vital.

Orchard’s provision for our residents with dementia is outstanding.  Not only do we have sixteen dedicated dementia homes, fully staffed by a well trained specialist team, but we know that offering the optimum environment and  a mix of special therapies and daily activities can vastly improve the quality of our residents’ lives.

For the past few years we have been taking advice from the top specialists in the field of dementia and elderly care and have implemented  their  recommendations. We now have a comprehensive dementia programme  in place offering the best in specialist care for our residents.

In addition, we can point you in the right direction if you need further information or support on many aspects of dementia care. 

The Care Environment

 It is crucial that dementia sufferers live in a safe and well designed space, so that they can orientate  themselves with ease and comfort and remain as independent as possible.

In twelve   of our dementia homes we have started to make many  changes.²  Signs around the home have been replaced with large bold pictures in strong colour with clear type, to avoid confusion. Placed at eye level these are visible to all our residents including wheelchair users.

Bedroom doors are now brightly coloured and contrasting, rotating through five primary colours and every door has a large visual that is of unique significance to each individual. This enables residents to locate their own private space with ease reducing stress levels.

Toilets and bathrooms carry relevant pictures  to prompt recognition and to  enable residents to find their own way without needing assistance.

Handrails have been painted orange so that they stand out from the pale walls and are easy to locate. Moving around the home with independence is very important for self esteem and dignity and it also reduces falls.

We do not use patterned carpets and curtains as these can create fear  and alarm in dementia sufferers who often interpret these as three dimensional.  Plain furnishings in neutral colours are more calming and reassuring. They also promote better balance and  reduce stress and anxiety.

Dining area

Eating is a social and sensory activity and we believe is a shared activity to be enjoyed. But it can become difficult and problematic for dementia sufferers. 

Designated dining spaces offer brightly coloured table cloths to provide  contrast from floors and furniture.  Our primary- coloured crockery encourages  independent dining and more dignity at mealtimes enabling residents to see very clearly what is on their plate.  Eating well and maintaining a good weight is a priority.

Activity Rooms

 Leisure activities are vital for residents’ physical and mental well being. As well as a variety of lounges, we have specific reminiscence rooms, set out as cosy calm and welcoming old-fashioned parlours, to prompt  intellectual discussion social interaction and provoke happy memories.   We have also installed themed tactile activity boards along our corridors to engage and occupy,  such as post boxes, bus stops and telephones.

 Themed living areas to aid sensory stimulation  include an  indoor garden,  study corner, cafe and cinema room.   Exercise therapy is available  every week.

In addition, we have secure landscaped sensory gardens with wander paths.  Residents are encouraged to enjoy the outdoors and fresh air.

Our Team

Staffing levels are at a higher ratio in our dementia homes. All our staff are highly trained professionals who have completed dementia awareness  courses.

 The community

Leaving the safety and security of a home environment can be bewildering and very alarming for dementia sufferers and to combat this a number of services regularly visit  the home. These include  opticians, chiropodists, audiologists and hairdresser.  Nurses, doctors and other health professionals are always on call when needed.

 Links with outside community are strong. Regular church services and visits from national bodies such as the Alzheimers Society maintain vital connection  with the outside world  and we also have our own support groups within the home to assist family members. Visitors are welcome at any time.

 We would like to share with you some of the comments we have received from relatives  and friends of our residents. We thank them for their continued support and assistance.

“There is a wonderful atmosphere ...calm and nurturing. Carers are doing a wonderful job. My father is very happy and content”Chris Young 

“It is a beautiful environment and all the staff have been wonderful with my mother and support her when she needs it”Robert and Diane Lilliman.

“Mum loves being able to be sure it is her room. She loves the colours and pictures”Trish Bartle.

“The dementia unit is very safe and secure. All the staff are very caring and helpful”Dorothy Smith.