As more people with dementia are admitted to general hospital wards, there is an increasing need to find better ways to support them.
A/Prof Maayken van den Berg
In response to this need, Associate Professor Maayken van den Berg from Flinders University is leading a new project aimed at improving dementia care in hospitals.
This important initiative is proudly supported by The Hospital Research Foundation Group and the Northern Adelaide Local Health Network (NALHN).
Addressing challenges in hospital settings
The project specifically targets patients whose symptoms can worsen when they are moved from their familiar home to an unfamiliar hospital setting. This can leave them feeling disorientated and agitated.
To address this, the team have launched a project titled CARE-D (Coordinated Approach for Responsive Engagement in Dementia).
The project will develop and evaluate a new care model for dementia patients in hospital settings.
“A key focus of this project is managing behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia,” A/Prof van den Berg explained.
“This poses significant challenges, particularly in lower socioeconomic areas.”
With this in mind, the CARE-D project will bring together a multidisciplinary group that combines clinical expertise, researchers and lived experience from NALHN and Flinders University.
As part of the implementation, the team will introduce the CARE-D model in the General Medical Unit at Modbury Hospital. Additionally, an Aged Care Coordinator will be employed to provide specialised support for dementia patients.
“The coordinator will advocate for dementia patients, train staff, and promote person-centred care with personalised behaviour management plans,” said van den Berg.
Moreover, the coordinator will also ensure continuity of care through timely referrals and coordination between departments, as well as support during discharge.
Looking towards long term impact
Long term, the results from A/Prof van den Berg’s research seeks to contribute to meeting the needs of our ageing population.
“We hope to improve the culture of care for people with dementia and their families. Not only in acute hospital settings, but potentially in other healthcare environments as well.”
This project has been made possible thanks to our loyal supporter community! You can support important projects like this by donating today.
