Lockdown lifeline to keep relatives connected offered to all UK care homes
Care homes across the UK are being offered a vital line of communication that will enable families to stay updated about the care of elderly residents during coronavirus lockdown. Leading care technology provider Person Centred Software is opening up its Relatives Gateway platform to all UK care homes free of charge to help them maintain communication with families during these unprecedented times. Allowing secure social media style messages and photos to be shared between care home residents and their families, it will also give carers an efficient way to provide wellbeing updates to concerned loved ones. In the last month, 2,700 people have used the Relatives Gateway to keep in touch with family members living in care homes. The technology is currently used by 1,600 UK care homes who use Person Centred Software’s Mobile Care Monitoring system, but in response to the escalating COVID-19 situation in the UK, the company is rolling out a free version for any care home to implement. Jonathan Papworth, founder and director of Person Centred Software says this could be a vital lifeline: “Following calls from the government to stop non-urgent contact and protect those most vulnerable, the care sector is facing unprecedented social and operational challenges of lockdown conditions. “Putting people and personal interaction at the heart of care is vital and it’s important that care home residents who miss out on visits from loved ones stay connected – while families and friends remain updated about the day-to-day wellbeing of their loved ones.” Person Centred Software’s move has been commended by Care England with chief executive, Professor Martin Green OBE saying: “This will help Care Homes maintain isolation, but at the same time, enable people to keep in contact with relatives, friends and loved ones.” Jonathan continues: “Care homes face significant uplifts in phone calls from concerned family members over the coming months. Our technology provides a window to provision and enables carers to share pictures and messages from the outside world. It’s a way to help free up care time, but importantly can help boost morale during what could be a lengthy and lonely lockdown. “We’ve developed a free version of our Relatives Gateway that can be rapidly deployed to any care homes that wish to use it – our aim is to support the sector to help families stay connected throughout this challenging time.” The Relatives Gateway enables relatives to communicate with loved ones via a web application. For further information, please visit personcentredsoftware.com/covid19response or call 01483 357657.
NHS workers #YouAreHeroes
The NHS employs over 1.4 million people in the UK and the Social Care Sector hires a further 1.6 million people. An additional 65,000 retired doctors and nurses have been contacted by the Government, urging them to return to work. These are frontline, key staff that are working day and night to support and take care of our loved ones during this unprecedented time Showing our support The Home Care Expo wanted to show support and appreciation to the health, care and support workers on the frontline during the COVID 19-Coronavirus pandemic by building an online community though the #YouAreHeroes Campaign. The aim of this campaign is to connect all those working in high-risk health, care and support roles including NHS workers, care providers and other health social care providers with the view to: • Combat loneliness and stress for health, care and support workers • Raise awareness and appreciation of the difficult but incredible work health, care and support professionals are doing at this unprecedented time • Facilitate conversations between those in similar positions • Show our appreciation for all your hard work Join the Campaign Participation in this campaign is greatly encouraged, please use #YouAreHeroes on social media as you share; • Advice to health, care and support workers such as how to cope mentally or good technology that allows you to keep connected • Words of encouragement – either by video, a quote or a photo • Resources you think may help Let’s work together to build a community that helps our key workers in the fight to tackle the coronavirus outbreak. Follow the campaign on social media at @HomeCareExpo #YouAreHeroes
Heart-warming video as school pupil plays veteran’s favourite song
This week marks the first National Intergenerational Week, running from 23 March to 29 March. To celebrate the week, Royal Star & Garter, which provides loving, compassionate care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia, had planned to hold a number of activities in its Homes in Solihull, Surbiton and High Wycombe. However, the Coronavirus outbreak has meant these plans have been paused. But that did not stop one school pupil from bringing joy to residents in Surbiton. Jemima has been coming into the Home every Friday to play the piano for residents as part of her Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. She also takes requests from residents, often learning the songs ahead of her next visit. However, she has not been able to come into the Home following the charity’s decision to limit visitors. Undeterred, Jemima decided to record a video of a resident’s favourite song to put a smile on his face. She played Ken Dodd’s Happiness for RAF veteran Bernard, and sent the video to the Home’s Activities Manager Raquel Pena Aristizabal. Raquel then captured the 91-year-old’s delighted expression, as he thanked Jemima and sang along. Raquel said: “It was a joy seeing the video, and Bernard’s reaction was so moving. Our residents cherish their visits from the younger generation. Jemima plays so beautifully and you can see how much it means to her when she sees residents enjoying her music. Visits like these mean the world to our veterans, and we will be using technology to continue these interactions at this difficult time. My thanks go to Dawn, our Activities Coordinator, who has facilitated Jemima’s visits.” Royal Star & Garter welcomes children from as young as a few months up to secondary age to come into its Homes and meet residents. St Matthew’s CoE Primary School in Surbiton pay weekly visits to Royal Star & Garter. Key Stage 1 Leader Liz Lowe said: “The children have been fascinated to find out about the lives of some of the residents and have developed a lovely sense of what it means to belong to a wider part of the community. Some of the children discuss their visits to the Surbiton Home in great detail to their friends when they get back to class, with one little girl saying that it was her ‘best day ever!’” Toad Hall Nursery in Chessington were regularly visitors to the Surbiton Home in 2019. Nursery Manager Emma Ockenden said: “As a nursery we are looking after the younger generation and it’s lovely to see how to look after the older generation. It’s a really lovely experience for them.” Army veteran Alec agreed. The Surbiton resident looks forward to the visits of nursery children, saying: “They change your outlook on life. If you don’t associate with them, you don’t know what life is.” Watch the video here!
Solihull care home excited to begin new pen pal initiative
Claridge Place, a care home in Warwick Road, Solihull, are keeping residents busy during the Coronavirus lock down, with one particular initiative that hopes to bring new, intergenerational community connections. Due to Coronavirus infection prevention measures, visits to Claridge Place, operated by Sanders Senior Living, are currently postponed, but the professional care and wellbeing team have constructed an exciting plan, supported by Tudor Grange Academy Solihull, with great anticipation felt by residents. Claridge Place Director, Peta Mandleberg, thought it’d be great to approach a school to connect with to help reduce loneliness and isolation at this time. Peta approached Tudor Grange Academy Solihull (where her step daughter happens to work) with the idea and they confirmed immediately that they were keen to support a pen pal initiative as it links directly to the Academy’s values, which include Kindness and Empathy. A small group of students enthusiastically agreed to write letters to the elderly residents of the home. Being accustomed to receiving letters when living in their own properties, paper communication is a familiar form that they no longer really have dealings with, but the potential pen pal scheme will reignite that and will be a great means to make new friends and it will help in efforts to bridge the generation gap. When the Coronavirus threat has passed, we are hopeful that the students will be able to meet the residents and continue their new found friendships in person, getting to know one another, with communication then continuing on paper and in person on a regular basis. Claridge Place opened in late 2019 and offers 24 hour care for older people, including those living with dementia, in a luxury setting. For any enquiries, please call 0121 271 0270, email info@sandersseniorliving.co.uk or visit www.sandersseniorliving.co.uk
Nutrition strategies for patients with sarcopenia
Author: Harriet Smith, Registered Dietitian Sarcopenia is a progressive and generalised skeletal muscle disorder, characterised by low muscle strength, low muscle quality or quantity, and low physical performance. Common signs and symptoms of sarcopenia include (1): ● Falls and fractures● Slow walking speed● Generalised weakness● Fatigue● Weight loss/muscle wasting● Functional decline● Cognitive impairment Sarcopenia which is largely attributable to ageing is known as primary sarcopenia. Sarcopenia is considered ‘secondary’ when other causes (e.g. malignancy or malnutrition) are implicated. By 60-70 years of age, 5-13% of people have sarcopenia; this rises to 11-50% in people older than 80 years of age (2). The prevalence of sarcopenia is up to 33% in community populations and 10% in acute hospital populations (3). When treating or preventing sarcopenia, the aim is to minimise skeletal muscle loss and preserve muscle function through a combination of physical activity (which includes resistance exercise) and good nutrition. Eating enough energy (calories) to maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI) is important for the prevention of malnutrition; a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of sarcopenia (1). Similarly, ensuring an adequate intake of protein is important for preventing and treating sarcopenia and frailty (3). Below is a list of energy and protein-dense foods which could be included in an older person’s diet to increase calories and protein: ● Oily fish (i.e. salmon or mackerel) ● Lean meat and poultry● Eggs● Nuts and seeds● Full fat dairy products (i.e. cheese, milk, yoghurt, custard)● Dried skimmed milk powder● Soups fortified with milk powder or milk● Smoothies made with milk or yoghurt● Cakes and bars Vitamin D plays an important role in bone and muscle strength and it may also have a protective role in reducing muscle loss (1). All UK adults, including those at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency, should consume a 10 microgram (400 IU) vitamin D supplement daily from October to March. People with very little or no sunlight exposure should consume 10 micrograms of vitamin D daily throughout the year (4). If a deficiency is detected, higher dosage supplementation may be necessary. In older adults who are unable to meet their nutritional requirements through an oral diet alone, high-energy, high-protein oral nutrition supplements may be useful. Increasing protein intake by 30g per day has been shown to improve physical performance in frail, community-dwelling older adults (5). ActaGain 2.4 Complete Maxi is an innovative one-a-day ONS that allows for flexible serving options, especially for patients who struggle with volume or compliance due to reduced appetite.With 480kcal and 19.2g of protein per 200 ml serving, ActaGain 2.4 Complete Maxi is ideal for many different types of patients who have increased protein and energy needs, such as those with sarcopenia.
New dates announced for Naidex 2020!
Further to its announcement of postponement last week, the organiser of leading independent living show Naidex, is pleased to be able to announce the new dates of 9th and 10th November 2020. The event will take place at the same venue the NEC Birmingham and all tickets remain valid. This includes all events co-located with Naidex including Smart Home for Assisted Living, Dementia, Care & Nursing Home, Home Care Expo, Care Tech Live, European Neuro Convention, Medical Imaging Convention, European Oncology Convention and AI&ML Convention. Like many large event organisers, this has been a complex situation and difficult for everyone involved. We would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all our exhibitors, speakers and partners for their messages of support. We very much look forward to welcoming you all later in the year. https://www.naidex.co.uk
Sarah celebrates 25 years as care home artist
Wales’ first ever care home artist in residence is celebrating a quarter of a century in the ground-breaking role.Talented Sarah Edwards was engaged as a consultant by the Pendine Park care organisation by arts loving owners Mario and Gill Kreft in 1995.Since then Sarah’s has supported the development of award-winning enrichment programmes at their eight care homes in Wrexham and Caernarfon where she has also masterminded their interior design. .Sarah, a gifted artist in her own right, first helped Pendine Park when they were opening their third care home, Highfield House, in Wrexham.Mario and Gill were keen to bring the benefits of art and music to residents and staff.Mario said: “We knew that art and music could be a huge benefit and were thinking of how it could be included in day to day care.“That’s when, out of the blue, an approach to provide innovative services arrived from Sarah who had just graduated from Cardiff University. It seemed to us that Sarah had already decided she was going to become the first artist in residence at Pendine Park and indeed the first In Wales.“We were intrigued to know more and invited Sarah to come and meet us. I met her with my grandfather, Freddie, who was 95 then and a big lover of the arts. Sarah interviewed us with some forensic questioning and fortunately we passed. The rest is history and we became clients.”Sarah has helped guide Pendine Park to win won numerous arts related awards and in 2015 the organisation was named Business of the Year at the prestigious Arts and Business Cymru Awards. Born and raised in Wrexham, Sarah graduated from Cardiff University with a first in illustration after initially studying art at Yale College which is now part of Coleg Cambria. She said: “My initial plan, as I graduated, was to illustrate children’s books, but I had a problem in that I’d be working on my own and I felt I’d be isolated. “Having completed a project at a hospital in Gwent to brighten up the hospital environment and make it an inspiring place for patients and visitors, the experience stayed with me and I thought about how I could take that idea forward into a care home setting. “I believed the arts, not just painting, drawing and collage but music, drama, writing and all other art, could have a positive impact not just on the lives of residents but staff too.” “I met Mario and his grandfather, Fred, who was a resident himself in what is now Highfield House. “I brought my portfolio in with me and explained my vision of how I saw the arts and the whole concept of enrichment developing. I agreed to volunteer at first and really enjoyed the interaction with residents. “Suddenly residents weren’t ringing their bells and demanding attention. They had a focus and something to concentrate on. ‘ I’m proud of what we have achieved together in terms of the arts and enrichment. “I run regular art classes, which are always with some popular, I work one-to-one with some residents, run craft groups, calligraphy sessions and lots of other projects. I’m a free agent, “ I advise on the interior design and colour schemes for all Pendine Park homes as they are refurbished through a rolling programme of improvement work. “Together we have run some big enrichment projects that I’m very proud of and that have had a very positive effect on the lives of residents. “I met with the Hallé orchestra 11 years ago and we have collaborated ever since. I’ve also worked with Welsh National Opera, and Wrexham Symphony Orchestra on different projects. And I have devised ground-breaking dementia projects at the Llangollen International Music Festival for six years. She added: “People come into a care home and sometimes believe it’s the end, or near end, of their lives. But it isn’t, it is in fact just the start of a new chapter. They are often amazed to discover they have talents they didn’t know they had. That’s what inspires me. “Enrichment and the arts are a cornerstone of life at Pendine Park. I want to see how we can develop that even further. Some residents have showed me how that is possible. “I get a huge thrill out of being with and talking to residents and seeing them find something in themselves that they never knew was there. People who would never, or rarely, leave their rooms come to art sessions and are inspired and enthusiastic’ “I get as much inspiration from residents and staff of Pendine Park as I hope they get from me.”
Helping older people to meet their hydration needs
Adequate hydration is essential to maintaining good health. Most adults are able to monitor and respond to their hydration needs. However, this becomes more difficult as we get older, meaning elderly people are more susceptible to becoming dehydrated. In this blog post, we’ll look at ways to help older people to meet their hydration needs. Why are older people at risk of dehydration? Water makes up a large proportion of our bodies. You can read more about hydration needs in different age groups here. Up to 20% of older adults are dehydrated, especially those in long-term care establishments. As we get older, our ability to sense thirst decreases. Poor mobility, cognitive decline, and physical ailments (including problems with swallowing) are also potential barriers for staying hydrated. Certain patient groups are at even greater risk of dehydration. For example, people with dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease may be disorientated or forgetful, which could make it more difficult to recognise and respond to thirst. Certain medications such as diuretics and laxatives can also result in increased risk of dehydration due to fluid losses. Research has found that some older people may consciously limit their water intake due to fear of incontinence or to avoid relying on others for help with going to the toilet. Consequences of dehydration in older people Dehydration is associated with poor health outcomes at all ages, but the effects can be more pronounced in elderly people. Dehydration in older adults has been associated with pressure sores, urinary tract infections, increased risk of falls, and unplanned hospital admissions. Even mild dehydration can affect cognitive ability, resulting in confusion and delirium. If dehydration is not addressed quickly, it can result in a rapid decline in an older person’s health, which could result in increased disability, loss of independence and even death. How to encourage older people to stay hydrated Relatives, friends, carers and healthcare professionals can help to encourage older people to stay hydrated. Here are some suggestions: ● Provide a range of drinks that they enjoy – make water more palatable using a ceramic water filter. You could also mix water with other beverages such as fruit squash, fruit juice or cordials. ● Offer hydrating foods such as soups, stews, smoothies, lollies, yoghurts, ice cream, fruits, and jellies. ● Ensure they always have a drink during mealtimes. Offer regular drinks between meals too such as water, milkshakes, tea or coffee. ● Leave a jug or refillable bottle of water in an easily visible and accessible place. ● Encourage older people to incorporate hydration into their social activities – why not invite an older person over for a cup of tea or suggest that they attend a local lunch club with friends. ● Prompt them to drink little and often throughout the day – if an older person has memory issues, you could pin a note to remind them to drink in a visible place in their kitchen. Using a water filter system helps to remove small contaminants from drinking water, improving its taste. Discover the range of products Doulton Water offer and decide which filter is best for you.
Manfred Sauer UK – urology products with a difference
Manfred Sauer UK – Manufacturer of urology products with a difference, often designed by end users with unique features and benefits! Sheaths – b.sure – urinary sheath that is short, strong and quick to fit with extra strong adhesive, available in 9 sizes from 18mm to 35mm with a buffer/comfort zone… Alternatively you can try the p.sure – urinary sheath that is longer in length and customisable which is available in 11 sizes from 18mm to 40mm. ISC Catheters – IQ Cath a uniquely flexible ISC catheter, with a rounded tip which prevents the head from getting caught in the urethra with smooth eyelets for maximum comfort. IQ Cath is available in hydrophilic with an integral saline sachet and ready to use gel coated options. With its flexible tip IQ Cath can often pass strictures where other catheters have failed, try for yourself! Leg Bags – Our leg bags are designed with the user in mind. The unique Bendi bag is designed for wheelchair users or those mainly in a sitting position throughout the day, shaped to contour the bended knee. Our Discreet thigh bag is ideal for people with a small stature or those wanting a discreet bag for sporting and social activities. The Comfort traditional leg bag is available in 600ml and 1000ml to help you go that little bit longer. Nephsys – Our unique nephrostomy system which was designed by Radiology and Urology professionals with the help and support from nephrostomy patients. This secure and comfortable solution for patients from hospital to home. The system consists of a fully adjustable waistbelt with a drainage system with luer lock connectors. This cost-effective system is available on FP10 (NHS) prescriptions from the GP or Nurse Prescriber. No more wasting valuable clinic time arranging for hospital products to be supplied to patients within the community. No more re-siting nephrostomy tubes that have been pulled out by a leg bag which was designed for a urethral catheter slipping down a patient’s leg. Manfred Sauer Care – A FREE personal and professional home delivery service with over 20 years’ experience in dispensing and supplying all manufacturer products which are available on prescription. For more information please call Freephone 0800 999 5596. Come and meet the team at ACA in Bristol on 18th & 19th May on stand 18/19 or visit our website www.manfred-sauer.co.uk alternatively you can contact our Helpline on 01604 595696 to request samples or further information.
