Assessment of Needs, Protection and Safety

In caring for individuals with dementia, it is crucial to perform a thorough and comprehensive assessment of needs. This entails looking at their physical, emotional, psychological, social, and environmental needs.
Physical needs may include assistance with mobility, medication administration, nutrition and hydration, and general personal care such as bathing or dressing.
Psychological and emotional needs often involve providing a sense of security and understanding. This might encompass strategies like maintaining routine to reduce confusion, encouraging participation in activities to uphold dignity, and ensuring consistent and empathetic communication.
Social needs revolve around the inclusion of social activities, ensuring companionship, and promoting the person’s interaction with others. These activities can help to maintain cognitive abilities and improve overall well-being.
Environmental safety is significant in dementia care. A safe environment would typically minimise risks of falls or injuries, alleviate the symptoms of dementia (like wandering), and promote a sense of familiarity.
Risk assessments are fundamental for ensuring safety. This involves identifying potential hazards in the individual’s living environment, and establishing appropriate measures to minimise these risks.
Abuse or neglect must be prevented in any health and social care setting. Types of abuse include physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and neglect. Awareness and vigilance are important to identify any signs of abuse.
The application of safeguarding procedures ensures individuals with dementia are protected. Safeguarding involves protecting people’s rights to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect.
If you suspect any form of abuse or neglect, it is important to follow the correct reporting procedures within your workplace. This could mean informing a manager, or escalating the concern to the local safeguarding team or even the police, depending on the severity and urgency of the situation.
Consideration of ethical and legal aspects in dementia care is pivotal. Respecting autonomy, privacy, and dignity, upholding the principle of ‘informed consent’ for any procedure or treatment, and maintaining confidentiality of personal information are all important ethical considerations.
Legislation that supports the care, protection and safety of individuals with dementia includes the Mental Capacity Act, the Care Act, and The Equality Act. Familiarising yourself with these acts ensures you can uphold individuals’ rights and provide appropriate care.