What Are the Benefits of Residential Dementia Care?

More than 900,000 people living in the UK are diagnosed with some form of dementia. When it comes to dementia care, it’s important to explore every option and consider which approach is best for your loved one.   With the right support, many people living with dementia are able to stay at home. However, as their symptoms progress, there may come a time when they would benefit from residential dementia care.

At KYN, we understand that each individual’s journey with dementia is as unique as they are. In this guide, we will explore the many advantages that a good dementia care home can bring.

Round-the-Clock Support

For many people experiencing dementia, living independently presents a multitude of challenges. It may be difficult to carry out activities of daily living, and safety can start to become a concern.   If your loved one is living with dementia, residential care can provide peace of mind. It offers round-the-clock support and assistance in a safe, secure environment. Carers are on hand 24-hours a day to help with day-to-day activities such as bathing, dressing and getting into bed.

Furthermore, all household tasks - such as laundry, cooking and cleaning - are also taken care of.

Experienced Carers and Nurses

Unfortunately, it isn’t always possible to provide specialist dementia support at home. However, in a dementia care home, staff are specifically trained in caring for individuals living with dementia.   They have a wealth of knowledge in supporting people to live well, helping them to understand what the residents may be experiencing as the condition progresses. This helps them to meet residents’ changing needs, promoting independence and dignity as far as possible.

Qualified nurses are also on-site every day to provide a higher level of medical care.   At KYN, our residents and their families also benefit from emotional and practical advice from our Admiral Nurse.

Personalised Dementia Care

There are many types of dementia, each associated with a range of cognitive, psychological and physical symptoms. While there is no cure, there are many medications and treatments that can help to improve symptoms.   Every person’s experience of dementia is unique, meaning that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Good dementia residential homes create tailored, person-centred dementia care plans. Guided by their loved ones, they take into account each resident’s needs, abilities, wishes and preferences.  

At KYN, we pride ourselves on our holistic approach to care, treating mental, spiritual and physical health as a whole. Our residents have access to a range of evidence-based treatments, including art therapy, music therapy and reminiscence.

Dementia-Friendly Spaces

One of the challenges of caring for someone living with dementia is accessibility. Many houses feature complicated floor plans, stairs and awkwardly-shaped rooms. Additionally, it may be costly or impractical to provide necessary modifications such as ramps and safety rails.  Residential dementia care homes are designed specifically for the needs of those living with cognitive decline. They are built with layouts that are easy-to-navigate and well-signposted, allowing residents the freedom of moving around independently and safely. KYN care homes also feature dementia-friendly social spaces, sensory gardens and amenities such as an in-house spa.

Regular Nutritious Meals

Preparing and eating regular meals can be a particular struggle for those in the mid to late stages of dementia. They may have trouble remembering when they last ate, or may not be able to cook food safely.   A benefit of residential care homes for dementia is that all of your loved one’s nutritional needs are taken care of. Good care homes provide freshly-prepared, healthy meals catered to residents’ medical needs, dietary requirements and preferences. KYN residents living with dementia benefit from visual menus and delicious meals, promoting independence and choice at mealtimes.

Social and Recreational Opportunities

Many individuals with dementia report feelings of loneliness, isolation and boredom when living independently. This can have a significant impact on mental health, contributing to depression and anxiety.

Moving to a care home can bring plenty of opportunities for socialisation and companionship. Good care homes encourage residents to connect through a variety of organised dementia-friendly activities. This helps to promote both mental and physical wellbeing.   At KYN, we provide a wide range of recreational, physical and intellectual pursuits tailored to residents’ interests and abilities. We encourage residents’ loved ones to visit and join in as often as they would like.

Discover KYN: Outstanding Dementia Care Homes

KYN care homes provide the highest standards of dementia care in beautifully designed environments. We get to know each resident as an individual, creating holistic, personalised care plans informed by their unique needs and preferences.    We offer an ever-changing programme of organised activities designed to stimulate the mind and body, from live music performances to social clubs. With guidance from our Admiral Nurse, our residents living with dementia also benefit from evidence-based practices such as art therapy and cognitive stimulation therapy. 

To find out more about KYN’s residential dementia care, contact us today. Fill in our enquiry form or call us on +44 (0) 20 3535 1923.