Oct 12, 2013, 01:47 pm
Last edited Oct 12, 2013, 01:47 pm
update #1
Hi,
If you have not already received a response to your posting I would like to respond to b) Help maintain independence with meals.
Consider encouraging the resident to be as independent as possible in feeding themselves. Encourage them and offer minimal assistance until required. Does the resident required and feeding aids that would allow them to feed themselves? If the resident is challenged in holding a spoon or fork ask for aids that have been designed specifically to allow residents to independent with their meals.
With the question about hygiene you would need to check their incontinence pads regularly, be aware of any odors that could indicate they need to be changed, ensure the resident is washed correctly in the morning and wiped when incontinence pads are changed. Be mindful that the pad they are wearing is sufficient to hold the amount of urine they would pass. Different pads will absorb different amounts of liquid. Encourage the resident to be as active as possible when your are showering or cleaning them including letting them clean their own teeth if possible.
Keep in mind that you may need to repeat the same instructions over and over again in a simple and clear manner. As you know people with dementia can easily get confused and the simpler way you can communicate with them the better is it for them. Consider their environment, make sure there are no distractions, excessive nloise and there is plenty of light.
Here are just a few things for you to consider.
Allan
