Integration and independence: a new approach to autonomy and social inclusion within care homes
| Pages | 70-75 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/20428301311330117 |
| Published date | 24 May 2013 |
| Date | 24 May 2013 |
| Author | Angie Williams |
| Subject Matter | Health & social care |
Integration and independence: a new
approach to autonomy and social inclusion
within care homes
Angie Williams
Angie Williams is an Admiral
Nurse at The Orders of St John
Care Trust, Lincolnshire,
England.
Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the negative stigma associated with dementia, as well as
the person-centred care initiatives introduced by a not-for-profitcare provider, to prevent the social isolation
of residents.
Design/methodology/approach – The author explains how The Orders of St John Care Trusthas led the
way in promoting the social inclusion of individuals with dementia, by keeping a relationship-centred
approach at the heart of care practices. Set out in a structured analysis format, her article takes the reader
through the latest dementia research, as well as exploring the independent techniques introduced by care
homes across the trust to ensure social inclusion, while minimising the use of anti-psychotic drugs.
Findings – The article highlights the benefits of ensuring a person-centred approach to those affected by
dementia. By taking individual requirements into consideration, helping specialist care organisations to
improve the quality of life of their residents and increasing active participation in society is achievable.
Practical implications – A standardised and static approach to dementia care is ineffective and can
reduce the quality of life for those living with the condition. However,making small changes to care practices
and focussing on an individualised approach can avoid social isolation.
Originality/value – This paper sets out a number of initiatives proven to champion dignity, autonomy and
inclusion for those affected by dementia. As well as providing the results of successful care initiatives, the
article gives advice to enhance the quality of life for residents, their families and their carers, guiding
exceptional care practices.
Keywords Dementia, Social inclusion, Person-centred care, Internal communities, Residential care,
Nursing homes
Paper type Technical paper
Dignity, independence and flexibility
With diagnosed dementia figures expected to reach 1.4 million by 2040 (Turpin, 2012), raising
awareness of the condition and ensuring the highest level of dementia care is becoming a
familiar household issue, not simply restricted to the nursing and residential sector.
In fact, with one in five people over the age of 80 likely to be affected by the condition (Hill, 2011),
more needs to be done to meet the individual requirements of those living with dementia,
including planning and funding support services, as well as preventing social isolation.
In this paper, I discuss the social challenges and stigmas attached to those affected by
dementia, as well as profiling the Trust’s ongoing efforts to promote and maintain social
inclusion for all residents.
Working in partnership with Dementia UK (2012) and My Home Life (2011), Orders of St John Care
Trust (OSJCT) is the only independent care provider in the UK to appoint its own Admiral Nurses,
PAGE 70
j
MENTAL HEALTH AND SOCIAL INCLUSION
j
VOL. 17 NO. 2 2013, pp. 70-75, CEmerald Group Publishing Limited, ISSN 2042-8308 DOI 10.1108/20428301311330117
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