Staff at FDC Law have undertaken training to become ‘Dementia Friends’ in line with the Alzheimer’s Society initiative.
The initiative aims to challenge the way we think about dementia and treat those that are living with the condition.
The group says, “Anne Hills, who is a Dementia Friends champion, visited our offices to raise awareness about dementia and to train staff in becoming Dementia Friends. Anne emphasised the importance of viewing dementia in a more positive light – considering the things someone living with dementia can do, rather than things they can’t. Becoming a Dementia Friend involves changing your perception of life with dementia by using 5 key messages; 1. Dementia is not a natural part of ageing, 2. Dementia is caused by disease of the brain, 3. Dementia is not just about losing your memory – it can affect thinking, communicating and doing everyday tasks, 4. It is possible to live well with dementia, 5. There is more to a person than dementia.
“Unfortunately, many people die from illnesses related to loneliness and social exclusion each year. Anne emphasised the importance of continuing to visit loved ones living with dementia, even if you previously thought there ‘wasn’t much point’ as they would forget the visit once you had left.
“Anne explained that while someone living with dementia may not remember factual events, such as day trips or the time a family member came to visit, they are still able to remember the emotion that they felt when the event occurred. She gave the example of taking a family member living with dementia to the beach for an ice cream. Though the person may have forgotten the ice cream and the beach by the time they arrive home, the feelings of happiness and love will remain with them.
“Staff were given different scenarios aimed at building on their understanding of dementia. For example, someone living with dementia may feel as if they are living in the past, with their oldest memories feeling like their most recent. This can impact on everyday tasks, such as making cups of tea, which become more of a challenge. The individual may try to use their electric kettle on the gas hob because this is what they remember. Family members may react in this situation to try and stop the individual from using their kitchen in fear that they could hurt themselves.
“Anne encouraged staff to consider alternative approaches, for example rather than restricting the freedom of the person living with dementia; it may be beneficial to adapt their surroundings to suit the time period they believe they are in. This may mean finding a kettle which can be used on the hob rather than an electric kettle. Small changes such as this will help to put the individual at ease and encourage them to live well.
“An individual living with dementia may also experience changes in perception. Anne explained to staff that where buildings or shops have a large black doormat at the entrance, someone with dementia may see this as a black hole in the floor. Anne stressed the importance of remaining patient in public places where someone may be struggling in a scenario such as this.
“The training ended with emphasis on turning our understanding of dementia into action. Staff were encouraged to think of an ‘action’ that they would take as a result of attending the session and becoming a Dementia Friend; this could mean getting in touch with someone that they know is living with dementia, or simply having more patience in the supermarket. Staff discussed using photo albums and other visual aids with clients, as well as making sure that they are free from any distractions and encouraging the support of close family members.
“The work will improve the way our staff engage with clients – encouraging us to see dementia in a different light and helping to put our most vulnerable clients at ease.”
More information about the initiative can be found at www.dementiafriends .org.uk
