26.02.2021
This is just one example of our Dementia Hubs team support local residents. Kam was diagnosed with Dementia by the memory clinic and signposted to the Dementia Hubs Team at Ashford Place for support on discharge. Kam is cared for by his wife and daughter who provide all the care needed to keep him safe at home. Due to his complex health needs Kam has been admitted to hospital several times in the past year and his health continues to deteriorate.
His family have noticed that there has been an increase in his symptoms, and he is more aggressive and frustrated, he is waking regularly at night and wandering, causing the whole family to be sleep deprived. The family were desperate for support and guidance on how to cope with Kam’s needs and how best to keep him active and well. They also were facing eviction and struggling to pay the rent which was adding to their stress. The Hubs adviser was able to identify that Mum should be able to claim a top up of Carers Allowance on her small pension, and she was supported to make the application online. The adviser also helped the family apply for a blue badge so that they could safely use the car to transport Dad to appointments.
The family were facing eviction and the Hubs adviser referred the family for housing support and engaged with the Integrated Care Co-ordination service for support with housing and other issues related to Dads care.
Kam’s wife has limited spoken English and was struggling to understand her husband’s needs and to express her own feelings about his diagnosis. The Hubs Team was able to make a referral in the community to someone with the right language skills and experience of dementia to support her. They also made a link between the family and local carer support groups and dementia cafés, so that they can get vital ongoing support. Finally, a referral was made to the specialist dementia matron at Northwick Park hospital, who was able to support them while Dad was on the ward having treatment, meaning this was a less stressful time for the family. It does not stop here; we will continue to provide holistic support and advice whenever needed.