CHW44-Supporting Individuals with Dementia Policy
{{org_field_logo}}
{{org_field_name}}
Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
CHW44-Supporting Individuals with Dementia Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to provide clear guidance on how {{org_field_name}} supports individuals living with dementia in a way that upholds their dignity, independence, and well-being. The policy aligns with the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016 and other best practices to ensure high-quality, person-centred dementia care. It aims to promote a compassionate, supportive environment where individuals feel safe, valued, and respected.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all staff members involved in the care and support of individuals with dementia at {{org_field_name}}. It includes care planning, communication strategies, behavioural support, environmental adjustments, and collaboration with families and healthcare professionals. The policy ensures compliance with safeguarding, mental capacity, and infection control requirements while promoting the highest standards of dementia care.
3. Principles of Dementia Care
Person-Centred Care: Each resident with dementia will have a personalised care plan, developed in collaboration with them, their families, and healthcare professionals. This plan will outline individual preferences, routines, life history, and specific needs to ensure a holistic approach to care.
Dignity and Respect: Staff must always treat residents with dignity and respect, preserving their independence wherever possible. Personal care routines should be adapted to ensure the individual is comfortable and involved in decision-making.
Effective Communication: Staff must use clear, simple, and reassuring language when communicating with individuals with dementia. Non-verbal communication, including gestures, facial expressions, and touch, should be used to reinforce understanding and comfort.
Consistency and Routine: Individuals with dementia benefit from structured daily routines that provide familiarity and reassurance. Staff must follow established care plans, ensuring that schedules for meals, personal care, and activities remain predictable and calming.
Promoting Independence and Engagement: Residents should be encouraged to participate in meaningful activities that align with their interests and abilities. Cognitive stimulation, music therapy, reminiscence activities, and physical exercises should be incorporated to enhance well-being and maintain skills for as long as possible.
Mental Capacity and Decision-Making: Where an individual with dementia has fluctuating capacity, decisions must be made in their best interests, following the principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). Staff must involve individuals in decision-making as much as possible and seek consent for all care interventions.
Safeguarding and Risk Management: Dementia care must be delivered in a safe and protective environment. Staff must be vigilant for signs of distress, agitation, or neglect, reporting any concerns immediately in line with the Safeguarding Policy (CHW13). Measures should be in place to prevent wandering, falls, and other risks while maintaining as much freedom and choice as possible.
4. Procedures for Supporting Individuals with Dementia
Initial Assessment and Care Planning:
- On admission, a comprehensive dementia care assessment will be conducted, identifying cognitive abilities, personal preferences, and care needs.
- A life story approach will be used to build a care plan that incorporates familiar routines and meaningful activities.
- Care plans will be regularly reviewed and updated in response to changes in the individual’s condition.
Managing Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD):
- Staff must use non-pharmacological approaches such as reassurance, redirection, and validation therapy before considering medication.
- Triggers for distress (e.g., noise, unfamiliar faces, or discomfort) must be identified and minimised.
- De-escalation techniques should be employed to manage agitation, aggression, or confusion, with minimal restraint or restriction.
Creating a Dementia-Friendly Environment:
- Signage and wayfinding aids should be clear, using both words and pictures to help residents navigate the environment.
- Lighting and colour contrasts should be optimised to prevent visual confusion.
- Safe, secure outdoor spaces should be provided to encourage mobility and connection with nature.
Nutrition and Hydration:
- Individuals with dementia may experience difficulty eating or recognising food. Staff must provide assistance in a respectful and non-intrusive manner.
- Finger foods and adaptive utensils may be used to promote independence.
- Hydration should be actively encouraged to prevent confusion related to dehydration.
End-of-Life Dementia Care:
- Advanced care planning discussions should be held with residents and families early in the diagnosis to ensure preferences are recorded.
- Palliative care interventions should focus on comfort, dignity, and pain management in the later stages of dementia.
- Emotional support should be provided to families during the end-of-life process.
5. Staff Training and Responsibilities
- All staff must complete mandatory dementia awareness training.
- Additional specialist training will be provided to key staff members in dementia care techniques, behaviour management, and communication strategies.
- Regular supervision, case reviews, and audits will ensure staff competency and continuous improvement in dementia care practices.
6. Related Policies
- CHW07 – Person-Centred Care Policy
- CHW08 – Dignity and Respect Policy
- CHW09 – Consent to Care Policy
- CHW13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
- CHW17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
- CHW34 – Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy
- CHW36 – Initial Assessment and Care Planning Policy
7. Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to changes in legislation, regulatory requirements, or organisational needs. Feedback from staff, residents, and their families will be used to enhance the policy where necessary.
Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.