DC44-Supporting Individuals with Dementia Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Supporting Individuals with Dementia Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline {{org_field_name}}’s commitment to providing high-quality, person-centred care for individuals with dementia. Dementia affects cognitive functions such as memory, thinking, and communication, requiring specialised support to maintain dignity, independence, and quality of life. Our approach ensures that individuals receive compassionate, structured, and evidence-based care that aligns with Care Quality Commission (CQC) Fundamental Standards, NICE Dementia Guidelines, and the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

All employees, including care workers, coordinators, and management.
Service users diagnosed with dementia, ensuring their needs are met with dignity and respect.
Families and caregivers, promoting involvement and collaboration.
Healthcare professionals, ensuring multi-disciplinary support for holistic care.
Regulatory bodies, ensuring compliance with statutory and ethical standards.

It covers:

Principles of dementia care.
Early identification and assessment.
Person-centred care planning.
Supporting communication and engagement.
Managing behavioural and psychological symptoms.
Safeguarding and risk management.
Training and staff development.
Continuous improvement and monitoring.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy aligns with:

Care Act 2014 – Ensuring individuals with dementia receive appropriate support and safeguarding.
Mental Capacity Act 2005 – Supporting decision-making and protecting individuals who lack capacity.
Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 – Governing quality and safety in care provision.
Equality Act 2010 – Preventing discrimination and promoting inclusive care.
NICE Dementia Guidelines (NG97) – Outlining best practices for dementia management.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 2018 – Ensuring confidentiality and secure record-keeping.

4. Principles of Dementia Care

{{org_field_name}} follows key principles to enhance dementia care:

Person-Centred Care: Recognising the unique needs and preferences of each individual.
Dignity and Respect: Treating service users with compassion and maintaining their independence.
Family and Carer Involvement: Engaging relatives in care decisions and emotional support.
Consistency and Routine: Establishing predictable care routines to reduce anxiety.
Evidence-Based Practice: Implementing the latest research in dementia care and interventions.

5. Early Identification and Assessment

To ensure timely intervention, we:

Work closely with GPs, memory clinics, and specialists to identify early signs of dementia.
Conduct comprehensive initial assessments to determine cognitive function, mobility, and social needs.
Develop individualised care plans with ongoing reassessment and adaptation as dementia progresses.

6. Person-Centred Care Planning

Care plans are tailored to the needs of each service user, including:

Daily living support (e.g., personal care, meals, mobility assistance).
Medication management in collaboration with healthcare providers.
Reminiscence therapy, music therapy, and life story work to stimulate memory.
Adjustments to the living environment to enhance safety and reduce confusion.
Regular reviews to adapt care as needs evolve.

7. Supporting Communication and Engagement

Effective communication strategies include:

Using clear, simple language and non-verbal cues.
Encouraging active listening and patience.
Maintaining eye contact and using reassuring tones.
Adapting interactions based on the individual’s communication ability.
Promoting social activities and cognitive stimulation.

8. Managing Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms

To support individuals experiencing agitation, anxiety, or aggression, we:

Use de-escalation techniques to manage distress.
Create calm and structured environments.
Identify and address triggers for behavioural changes.
Work with healthcare professionals to adjust medications if necessary.
Support caregivers with education and stress management techniques.

9. Safeguarding and Risk Management

To protect service users, we:

Conduct regular risk assessments to ensure a safe environment.
Implement falls prevention strategies and dementia-friendly adaptations.
Ensure compliance with safeguarding procedures to prevent neglect or abuse.
Provide guidance on wandering prevention, including GPS tracking if needed.

10. Training and Staff Development

To maintain high-quality dementia care, our staff receive:

Mandatory dementia awareness training.
Specialist training on advanced dementia care techniques.
Workshops on communication skills, behaviour management, and safeguarding.
Regular updates on best practices and research findings.

11. Continuous Improvement and Monitoring

We ensure ongoing excellence in dementia care by:

Conducting quarterly audits of care plans and service user feedback.
Implementing lessons learned from complaints and incidents.
Engaging with dementia charities, research bodies, and specialist services.

Reviewing this policy annually or as legislation and best practices evolve.

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.