The Royal United Hospital in Bath is marking Dementia Awareness Week (17th-23rd May) with a range of activities for patients and staff over the next few days.
On Tuesday 19th May, tea parties will be held on all wards at the hospital.
Participation and socialisation are key aspects of care for people with dementia; making sure patients with dementia are engaged and connected during their stay at the RUH can significantly aid recovery.
Staff will aim to create a party atmosphere on the wards, and take the opportunity to raise awareness amongst patients who may not be familiar with the condition.
On Wednesday 20th and Thursday 21st May, staff are invited to attend Dementia Friends training sessions.
The sessions will be open to staff (both clinical and non-clinical) who wish to deepen their understanding of the condition and learn how to support those with dementia – both at work and in the wider community.
Then, on the evening of 21st May, the Membership team is hosting a Dementia and Alzheimer’s ‘Caring for You’ event for Members of the Trust.
The event is designed to provide those who attend with a better understanding of the different types of dementia.
The audience will also hear from other medical experts including representatives from the Alzheimer’s Society and Maggie Depledge, Dementia Coordinator at the RUH, who will provide insight on what to expect if you’re a carer for someone with the condition.
The event will also include an update from Dr Chris Dyer, Consultant Geriatrician and Dementia Care Lead, on what the RUH has been doing to improve dementia care for patients.
Dr Dyer said: “The Caring for You event we are holding on the 21st May is fully booked – with over 130 people set to attend – which reflects the importance our Members attach to this issue.
“A quarter of all beds at the RUH are occupied by people with dementia, so we are determined to provide them with the very best care delivered by well trained staff.
“We also recognise the importance of working closely with carers, as they often understand their loved ones’ needs far better than anyone else.”
