At Midlands Care, we are proud to be going the extra mile in offering specialist Dementia Care Mapping (DCM) to our residents. As you may have seen in our recent social media posts, DCM is the practice of taking an evidence-based approach towards Dementia care, by aiming to better understand an individual and their quirks through covert observation, including movements and interactions. In turn, the team are able to uncover important information about the individual’s likes, dislikes and triggers, in order to improve and further personalise the care that they receive. DCM has the potential to uncover and assist in achieving amazing things for our residents and we can see evidence of this already in the mapping that has been completed so far. Today, we look to share just one success story, of how this practice has helped one individual truly live his best life!
Stage 1: Meet The Resident
The goal of this mapping session was to gain a better understanding of the motivations behind this resident’s actions and be able to give the home staff team more tools to support him in daily life. The day began with this in mind, as our mapper aimed to casually observe our resident, by remaining close by throughout the day and making notes in the process.
Stage 2: Observation
Just as anticipated, our mapper noted that this resident spent great portions of time looking for things to do, but seemingly showing no signs of distress. It was also noted that this resident showed a very high level of intense focus. Engaging in very purposeful activities. Spending a large amount of time in the dining area, making carving motions with cutlery and carefully tracing a napkin edge with a knife. These movements, that could appear nonsensical and frustrating to the average rushed outside observer, on reflection were a window into understanding him better.
Stage 3: Making Changes
More focus on the activity co-ordinators contribution here maybe , proactive, her passion for person centred care, being the one who worked closely with him to put action plan into practice, couldn’t have been achieved without her collaboration
Following collaboration with the home and next of kin of this resident, it was discovered that these movements closely aligned with those he had undertaken in his life long occupation. Actions of muscle memory and intent. Our mapper from here was able to make suggestions, to translate these findings into actionable projects. From here the activity coordinator took over, showing proactive passion for the person-centered care she offers, she worked closely with both the mapper and resident to put a plan into practice. Things such as finding ‘cutting or scoring’ alternatives, providing templates and rulers as well as work feedback materials, to allow better gratification in his work and higher satisfaction in the outcome.
Stage 4: Outcome
The coordinator ran her specialised activity with play dough and a small tool. Something which allowed for satisfying results in a safe way. The resident appeared to be completely immersed and engaged, talking about what he was doing and the technicalities of the process. The home also planned in a reminiscent activity, searching up images of the resident’s occupation and encouraging him to tell stories from the past. Something which appeared to fill him with joy and immense satisfaction, that carried into the rest of their day. Making a massive difference to his overall mood and zest for life!
Summary
What this experience highlights is that things are not always as they first appear. Actions shaped by Dementia could easily be seen as challenges by carers or loved ones. Yet, when we take the time to understand rather than dismiss and work as a wider team, we know what joy may be unlocked in the process.
Dementia can be such an alienating experience for everyone involved. However, practices such as Dementia Care Mapping help us to better understand those living with it, break down barriers, and ultimately improve the care and support we provide.
Stay tuned for more success stories to come, or following this journey and our other adventure on our social media, @midlandscare.