Welcoming Dr Nerida Burnie: Enhancing Dementia Care in Wimbledon and Kingston
With the appointment of Dr. Burnie to the team, it ensures we have the most robust and up-to-date dementia care in the Wimbledon and Kingston area.
At Home Instead Wimbledon and Kingston, our commitment to providing exceptional care for older adults is unwavering. To further this mission, we are delighted to announce the addition of Dr Nerida Burnie to our team.
A Wealth of Experience in Dementia Care
Dr Burnie has been a dedicated general practitioner in Kingston upon Thames since 2005. Her medical journey began at the University of Queensland, Australia, where she completed her training before relocating to the UK. In 2016, she earned a postgraduate certificate in dementia care from the University of Bradford, underscoring her dedication to supporting those affected by this condition.
Recognising a gap in community support, Dr Burnie established a dementia support service in Kingston in 2016. This initiative offered comprehensive assessments and follow-up services for individuals living with dementia, as well as their families and carers. Her holistic approach addressed cognitive symptoms, the impact on physical and mental health, and provided practical advice for managing the condition. By emphasising continuity of care, Dr Burnie ensured that families felt supported throughout their journey, balancing independence with safety and well-being.
Addressing the Growing Need for Specialised Dementia Services
Dementia prevalence is on the rise. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, there are currently an estimated 944,000 people living with dementia in the UK, with projections indicating this number will exceed one million by 2030. This surge highlights the pressing need for specialised dementia services.
In response to this growing demand, Home Instead Wimbledon and Kingston is proud to offer private consultations with Dr Burnie. Her expertise provides tailored advice and guidance, empowering individuals and their families to navigate the complexities of dementia and maintain the highest possible quality of life.
Empowering Our Care Professionals
Beyond client consultations, Dr Burnie will lead specialised dementia training for our Care Professionals. This initiative ensures our team is equipped with the latest knowledge and skills to deliver outstanding, compassionate care, reinforcing our position at the forefront of dementia support services.
A Community-Centric Approach
Our commitment extends beyond individual care. Nationwide research by Home Instead reveals that 90% of older adults prefer to receive care at home as they age, and 71% of family caregivers believe the home is an underutilized setting for dementia support. However, dementia’s complexity necessitates a deep understanding and specialized approach.
Clare Jefferies, owner of Home Instead Wimbledon and Kingston, emphasises:
“Clients and families are seeking comprehensive post-diagnostic dementia support. With Dr Burnie’s expertise, we can now offer the specialised, continuous care our clients need. Her addition to our team is a significant asset for many.”
Navigating the Social Care Landscape
The broader social care system faces challenges, including concerns about the proposed £86,000 cap on social care costs and discussions surrounding a cross-party Royal Commission to reform social care. Amid these uncertainties, our focus remains steadfast: providing reliable, expert-led dementia care that prioritizes the well-being of our clients.
Looking Ahead
With Dr Nerida Burnie joining our team, Home Instead Wimbledon and Kingston is poised to enhance the support we offer to those living with dementia and their families. We are dedicated to fostering a community where individuals receive the compassionate, specialised care they deserve, right in the comfort of their own homes.
