Dementia care and support in Maidstone: Reflecting on World Alzheimer’s Month
Home Instead Maidstone provides outstanding dementia care, with expert training and community support through initiatives like the virtual dementia bus and memory cafe.
As we reach the end of World Alzheimer’s Month, it’s a time to reflect on the importance of raising awareness and improving understanding of dementia. In 2023, there were an estimated 13,000 people living with dementia in Kent*, highlighting the critical need for quality care and support.
At Home Instead Maidstone, we take pride in our commitment to specialist training for our team and delivering outstanding care at home, as recognised by our CQC Outstanding rating. Throughout this month, we’ve reflected on the experiences and initiatives that have further enriched our approach to Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
What is dementia?
According to NHS England, dementia is not solely about memory loss; it affects how a person thinks, feels, behaves, and interacts with others. Dementia is a syndrome, meaning it involves a group of symptoms related to a decline in brain function. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, followed by vascular dementia, both of which significantly impact daily life. This makes personalised, compassionate care essential for those living with dementia.
Reflecting on our virtual dementia bus experience
In August, Home Instead Maidstone welcomed the virtual dementia experience tour bus to our offices at the Kenward Trust in Yalding. This innovative and immersive experience offered our team, families, and members of the local community a unique perspective on what it’s like to live with dementia. By simulating the cognitive and physical challenges faced by those living with the condition, participants developed a deeper empathy that now informs how we deliver care and create dementia-friendly environments.
This experience has reinforced our commitment to continuous learning and delivering the highest quality care.
Dementia care at Home Instead Maidstone
At Home Instead Maidstone, we offer personalised dementia care, ensuring each client receives a tailored approach. Our specialist dementia care training equips our Care Professionals with the practical skills needed to meet the unique needs of people living with dementia. Our person-centred training and care plans focus on maintaining dignity, independence, and quality of life for each of our clients as individuals.
In addition to our home care services, we now host a regular dementia-friendly memory cafe, which offers a safe, supportive space where those living with dementia and their caregivers can come together for social interaction and support. It’s a key part of our broader effort to raise awareness and support those affected by dementia within our local community.
Ongoing support beyond World Alzheimer’s Month
As World Alzheimer’s Month comes to a close, our dedication to supporting those living with dementia remains steadfast. Our dementia-friendly memory cafe continues to provide a supportive environment, and our Care Professionals and local office team remains committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred care. Our outstanding-rated team will continue to offer compassionate, responsive care that adapts to the evolving needs of our clients, allowing them to live well at home.
If you or a loved one is living with dementia and would like to find out more about care at home, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly and professional team at Home Instead Maidstone. We are here to provide compassionate care and support, tailored to your unique needs. To learn more about our home care services send us an enquiry online or call us at our local office on 01622 873414.
*Source: Kent Public Health Observatory.