Providing Reassurance and Relaxation for Clients Living with Dementia

Living with dementia can be a challenging journey, both for individuals and their families. As memory loss progresses, communication often becomes more difficult, making it crucial to find alternative ways to connect and provide comfort.

At Home Instead Fareham and Gosport, an “Outstanding” rated  provider of in-home care services in Fareham, Gosport and the surrounding villages, we understand the unique needs of individuals living with dementia. With our person-centred approach and dedicated Care Professionals, we strive to enhance the quality of life for our clients in every possible way.

In this blog post, we wanted to share how a Home Instead Care Professional used tactile support to help a client with dementia find reassurance and relaxation. As illustrated by a heartwarming picture of our client enjoying a morning song from our Care Professional.

Creating a Supportive Environment

We recognise the importance of creating a supportive environment for clients living with dementia. By focusing on individual preferences, interests, and abilities, we can develop personalised care plans that promote physical and emotional wellbeing. 

The goal is to create a safe and comfortable space where clients can thrive, despite the challenges posed living with dementia.

Tactile Support: A Gateway to Connection

One of the innovative approaches used by Home Instead is tactile support, which plays a pivotal role in connecting with  clients. The heartwarming picture shows a Care Professional providing tactile support to a client during a morning song session.

But what exactly is tactile support?

Tactile support involves the use of touch, such as gentle hand-holding, stroking, or massaging, to establish a sense of connection and security. For individuals living with dementia, touch can be a powerful means of communication, bypassing the barriers caused by cognitive decline.

Through touch, Care Professionals can convey warmth, empathy, and a sense of companionship, promoting a deeper sense of relaxation and wellbeing.

Benefits of Tactile Support

There are many benefits of tactile support for clients with dementia. Firstly, touch has been shown to reduce anxiety and agitation, promoting a calmer state of mind. 

For individuals who may experience confusion or difficulties communicating their feelings the reassuring touch of a Care Professional can provide a tangible anchor, offering comfort and a sense of stability.

Additionally, tactile support can enhance social engagement. By using touch to communicate, Care Professionals can establish a unique connection with their clients. 

This connection fosters trust and rapport, allowing clients to feel understood and valued, even in the absence of verbal communication. The sense of connection and belonging that tactile support provides contributes to a higher quality of life for clients living with dementia.

The picture of our  client enjoying a morning song, with the Care Professional providing tactile support, is a perfect depiction of the dedication and compassion that Home Instead embodies.