Philosophy of Care
Cedarhurst Dementia Care Home has a philosophy of care that is adhered to all staff, contracted service providers and volunteers. The philosophy of care guides decision making at all levels of the organization.
Residents
Cedarhurst Dementia Care Home provides a social model of care which builds on residual strengths and encourages maximum choice and independence for the residents. This is accomplished through a combination of the specifically designed therapeutic environment and strong meaningful programming.
The normal activities of daily living form the basis for programming. Programming has enough structure to provide security for the individual but allows for the maximum choice possible. The environment and programming work together to support memory and cognitive functioning, and to decrease difficult behaviours. This combination of environment and programming provides the highest quality of life possible and helps to contain difficult behaviours such as aggression, wandering, night wakefulness and loss of social skills.
The enthusiastic, caring, dedicated and well-trained staff members respect the dignity and abilities of the residents, as well as understanding dementia Including Alzheimer disease and their effects on behaviours. Residents are allowed to set their own pace and are encouraged to be as involved in the activities of daily living to the degree they are able which maintains their sense of independence and self-esteem. They help with meal preparation, laundry, cleaning, etc. The residents' lifelong routines are respected and accommodated so that breakfast can be eaten when the resident wishes and bedtimes are flexible. Activities are tailored to meet the needs, interests and abilities of the Resident. There are daily activities which include gentle exercises, music, discussions, crafts, games, walks, gardening, outings and celebration of special days. Staff assists with personal care including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, etc. when it is required. A community hairdresser and foot care nurse visit regularly.
Families
Families are important part of life at Cedarhurst Dementia Care Home. The needs of family members are recognized and supported and staff maintains ongoing communication with them. They are consulted regularly for on-going assessment of the resident and participate in developing and revising the care plan for the resident.
Visits from authorized family and friends are significant quality of life determinants for the residents and they are welcome to visit anytime and to participate as much or as little as they wish. Family and friends spend time around the kitchen table with a cup of coffee, enjoying a meal and socializing with their family member. BBQ's in the summer and Christmas parties have become annual events. A real sense of family has developed among the residents, family members and staff.
The safe, warm and understanding environment enhances the lives of the residents and alleviates the stress that families experience when a family lives with dementia.