If you have a loved one suffering from dementia, you might be considering dementia care in Auckland to ensure your loved one’s safety, happiness and enrichment.
We’ve compiled a list of a few top questions about dementia care below. If you have a question we haven’t touched on or would like more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our specialist dementia care team here at Ambridge Rose.
When should my loved one with dementia go into a care home?
Everyone experiencing dementia will be impacted differently, and over time will likely require a higher level of care as symptoms progress. Look out for signs that your loved one is increasingly unable to look after themselves, maintain hygiene, are at a heightened risk of hurting themselves, or if you as a carer could benefit from some additional support.
We’ve developed an online resource that may be helpful to find out more about how dementia may affect your loved one, and what symptoms may suggest you consider an assessment for residential care.
At what point will dementia patients need 24-hour care?
Dementia care comes in many different forms to cater to the individual needs of your loved one. Round-the-clock care may be the best care option for you and your loved one if you’re worried for your loved one’s safety. It can be difficult to ascertain when their safety is truly at risk but as a rough guideline, things like struggling to drive safely; wandering; disorientation or incoordination around sharp objects or frequent injuries are all signs it may be time to explore dedicated care.
At Ambridge Rose, residents are provided with 24/7 dementia care in our Auckland facilities and have access to round-the-clock support from our healthcare team, with an on-call doctor available as required. Find out more in our online resources.
How are care home staff trained to care for residents with dementia?
At Ambridge Rose we pride ourselves on providing specialist, bespoke dementia care in Auckland for our residents. Our healthcare team are trained in understanding dementia progression, communication techniques to assist with communicating with people who have difficulty with language, memory or reasoning, behavioural management and person-centred care, ensuring a tailored care plan for every resident.
Our staff utilise diversional therapy techniques and activities to tailor to different cognitive abilities, such as reminiscence therapy, sensory therapies such as music and art, pet therapy, common household tasks such as gardening, dancing and singing to music, and open-ended activities like drawing or painting.
This form of dedicated dementia care provides 24-hour supervision due to the increased risk of wandering, falls, and other safety concerns. Staff are trained to intervene effectively and compassionately in difficult situations at all Ambridge Rose facilities.
Can residents with dementia participate in activities or therapies?
Yes, absolutely. Participating in activities and therapies, even in a limited capacity, is encouraged at Ambridge Rose. Participation can help strengthen neurological pathways, stimulate communication and improve quality of life. Check out our online resources for some great activities you can do with your loved one to keep them engaged throughout every season.
What is the process for transitioning a loved one into dementia care?
Dementia care comes in many forms, and as such, the level of care your loved one may require will vary. The dementia care transition process typically begins with a carer seeking support or assistance to effectively care for their loved one, while juggling their own life’s responsibilities, or if the person living with dementia requires extra care beyond a caregiver’s capabilities.
Do you have to pay for dementia care in New Zealand?
There’s a range of options for both subsidised and unsubsidised residential care in New Zealand. For more information on this please visit the Work and Income New Zealand website.
Access to subsidised care will depend on a range of factors, including your ability to pay for dementia care, your location, the degree of care required, and more. Access to dementia care as a service requires ongoing consultation with Health New Zealand. A medical assessment is the first step to determine the dementia care needed from providers like Ambridge Rose.
How do you support families of residents with dementia?
We understand that dementia can be an intense and overwhelming experience for families, so we have a holistic approach to care, ensuring families are supported. We take care to consider individual beliefs, preferences, dietary requirements and can accommodate most requests when putting together a care plan.
Our ‘open door’ policy is always in place, to help families feel able and comfortable to discuss their loved one’s healthcare at any time, and we offer guidance and access to resources for families to seek additional assistance or support. At all our dementia care homes, we hold regular family support groups, where families can come together to share their dementia journey. We also use the AgedConnect app, to share memorable moments of a loved one with their family in a safe and secure way, helping families stay in touch and connected, even if they are unable to visit.
We aim to always be supportive, uplifting, and offer a caring and understanding ear, not only for our residents, but their families too.