What Is an Admiral Nurse?

Developed by Dementia UK, Admiral Nurses are qualified nurses with a specialism in dementia care. They provide emotional and practical support to those living with dementia, their families, friends and caregivers.

Admiral Nurses work in a wide variety of healthcare and social care settings, such as hospitals, clinics and care homes. 

In this guide, we will explain what Admiral Nurses are and how they help support those whose lives are affected by dementia.

What Are Admiral Nurses (UK)?

The term ‘Admiral Nurse’ refers to a Registered Nurse with specialist training and experience in dementia care. They are developed and supported by Dementia UK, the British dementia nurse charity. 

The first Admiral Nurses were introduced in 1990. The concept was pioneered by the founders of Dementia UK: the family of Joseph Levy CBE BEM, who lived with vascular dementia. Joseph was affectionately known as “Admiral Joe” for his love of sailing, which is how ‘Admiral’ dementia nurses got their name.

Through their Admiral Nurses, Dementia UK aim to provide life-changing support to families affected by any form of the condition. This includes Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body dementia, vascular dementia and others.

What Do Admiral Nurses Do?

Following the latest research into dementia, Admiral Nurses deliver expert guidance to people living with dementia and their loved ones. Some of the main roles of an Admiral Nurse include:

·         Helping those living with dementia to maintain their independence, manage their symptoms and enhance their quality of life

·         Providing tailored advice on how to handle complex health needs and comorbidities

·         Offering emotional support to caregivers and family, helping to relieve stress and worry

·         Sharing communication skills to help family members connect with one another

·         Providing advice and instruction on practical matters, such as applying for financial benefits or moving into a care home

Admiral Nurses do not directly assist with individuals’ personal care needs. However, they can liaise with healthcare professionals to help people access dementia care services, therapies and treatments.

How Do I Find an Admiral Nurse?

As of 2022, there are around 350 specialist dementia nurses across the UK. They work in various settings such as hospitals, hospices and Admiral Nurse clinics. Some Admiral Nurses, called Community Admiral Nurses, also conduct home visits.

Depending on your location, your healthcare professional (e.g your GP) may be able to refer you to an Admiral Nurse. If not, you can contact the dedicated Admiral Nurse Helpline, which is open every day except 25th December. It is available to families, carers and healthcare professionals, offering support and advice on any aspect of dementia.

Care homes offering specialised dementia care, such as KYN, may employ dedicated Admiral Nurses as part of their team. This means that residents and their families can access personalised guidance whenever they need it.

How Much Do Admiral Nurses Cost?

Admiral nursing is funded by host organisations, such as care homes and NHS Trusts, rather than service users. For this reason, it is completely free for people living with dementia and their families. This applies whether you are referred by a healthcare professional or request support directly.

If you move into a nursing home, care home or residential home, the carers may be able to help arrange access to an Admiral Nurse. This will be covered by the care home fees – you should not be asked to pay extra.

The Admiral Nurse Helpline is also available at no cost via email and telephone. If you are planning to call, make sure that Freephone numbers are enabled through your network provider.

Choose KYN for Life-Enriching Dementia Care

At KYN, our priority is to honour each of our residents living with dementia as individuals. We do this by providing personalised, holistic care, respecting their dignity, identity and independence throughout their journey.

KYN residents living with dementia enjoy calm, enriching environments designed specifically for their needs, from dedicated social spaces to sensory gardens. They also benefit from guidance and support from our dedicated Dementia Lead, along with their families.

To learn more about KYN luxury care homes, enquire today through our contact form. Alternatively, you can call us on +44 (0) 20 3535 1923 or email enquiries@kyn.co.uk.