To mark World Alzheimer's Month in September, our partners Bluebird Care Richmond & Twickenham spoke with Nub News to highlight the support they provide to clients with dementia.

World Alzheimer's Month is an international campaign that takes place every September to raise awareness of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, and to support those affected by the condition.

Reginald and Wendy aged 92 and 88 are recipients of care from Bluebird Richmond & Twickenham.

Wendy suffers from dementia, but her son, Christopher, says Bluebird Care has been patient and supportive in caring for her.

Christopher says: "Earlier in 2023 my mother was showing signs of sudden losing of temper and being verbally abusive over certain instances and occurrences that can be described as triggers.

"My mother sometimes forgot elements of a conversation that had only taken place within the last hour or so. Also she has sometimes convinced herself of something that she would not disbelieve once explained."

He adds: "Bluebird Care has supported my mother by being patient with her in explaining things and not overreacting when any of the triggers are enacted. Most of the instances are of perception rather than actual happenings."

Christopher notes that Bluebird carers ensure that they are providing quality care even when Wendy gets "anxious" while assisting Reginald too.

"Having someone present during the day for longer periods has helped as Mum gets anxious very quickly and wonders who and when the next carer is visiting," explains Christopher. "Most of the physical care is for my father with my mother witnessing.

"When she is fully trusting of the carer she lets them get on with it but when not fully trusting she gets anxious and assumes the carer is not fully capable even when they are." 

From his experience, Christopher feels showing patience with a loved one affected by dementia or Alzheimer's is key in making sure they are receiving the right help.

He continues: "The main dementia care issue based on my perspective from my mothers experience is showing patience, being aware of the triggers and applying simple psychological methods to avoid the situation having an adverse impact also, spotting any early signs of increased dementia."  

Aside from individuals suffering with dementia, Bluebird Care Richmond & Twickenham support the person's families, like Christopher, by providing them with education and guidance suited to their specific situation.

Bluebird Care Richmond & Twickenham raises awareness and funds for dementia and Alzheimer's actively through walks around the borough (credit: Bluebird Care Richmond & Twickenham).

Registered Care Manager at Bluebird Care Richmond & Twickenham, Justyna Zak, tells Nub News: "Supporting those with dementia is incredibly important to me because I see the person behind the illness.

"I spent years in my career caring for patients on the dementia unit in a nursing home, which gave me a huge insight into the complexities of the condition. That experience taught me how essential it is to provide compassionate, patient-centred care."

She adds: "People can play their part by first educating themselves about dementia and approaching those affected with patience and empathy. Simple gestures like spending time with someone, engaging in memory-stimulating activities, or offering support with daily tasks can have a big impact."

Bluebird Care now offers professional care to those living with dementia from the comfort of their home, which Justyna believes is "incredibly beneficial" in providing quality care to those individuals.

Justyna says: "I feel very fortunate that, as a company, we can now look after those living with dementia in their own home environment.

"This is something I believe is incredibly beneficial, as staying in familiar surroundings can help reduce confusion and anxiety.

"A change in environment is often a trigger for dementia progression, so being able to support people in a place where they feel safe and comfortable helps maintain their stability and quality of life.

"It's deeply rewarding to offer this level of care and see how much it means to the individuals and their families."

She continues: "Additionally, we prioritise scheduling the same care worker for all regular visits, creating a sense of familiarity and trust, which is essential, especially for those living with dementia.

"This consistency gives our customers the security of seeing a familiar face, making them feel more at ease and ensuring continuity in their care plan. It's these small but important touches that make a big difference in the quality of care we provide."

On a larger scale, Bluebird Care Richmond & Twickenham are also supporting Alzheimer's and dementia initiatives by backing Alzheimer's Society - the largest dementia-supporting charity in the UK.

"We're taking part in a charity walk to raise awareness and funds, not only collecting miles but also actively fundraising," says the care manager. "By participating in this initiative, we hope to contribute to research and support for those affected by dementia and encourage others to get involved in making a positive difference."

To find out more about Bluebird Care Richmond & Twickenham and its work with dementia, click here.

Bluebird Care Richmond & Twickenham is a sponsor of Richmond Nub News. Without sponsors our Richmond online newspaper would not be possible. Thank you.