 A
resident with dementia often needs an environment geared to
allow them to function at their full potential. A large
facility can be overwhelming to this resident and abilities
can decline by the inability they have to process their thoughts.
A goal to meet these residents needs was realized in 1996,
when the facility opened the first "Special Needs Unit" in
the area. Undergoing a major expansion and renovation
project, an existing neighborhood was taken and designed into
a secure environment with 24 beds available. A dining social
area with a nurses station and bathing facilities were added
and eventually a beautiful fenced in outdoor area with a walk
path and gazebo. This became the environment that provides
security and continuity to the resident with dementia. Though
the residents are contained, they are also able to attend
off unit functions if tolerated well. Unit staff remains the
same, faces become familiar and the resident is given a sense
of security as opposed to placement on the main floors of
the facility. Each resident entering the unit is evaluated
for appropriateness by a trained committee of professionals.
Progress is monitored and when the resident is no longer benefiting
from the unit's environment or declines with the stages of
their disease a decision is made to
perhaps move them to the main floor. The best interest
of the resident and the unit is always evaluated carefully.
Unit
Admission Criteria
-
Resident
must have a diagnosis of dementia
-
Resident
status will range from mild to moderately affected dementia.
-
Resident
must be ambulatory or able to be up in a wheelchair at least
4-6 hours daily.
-
Resident
must be able to take an active part in at least one of the
following:
Admission
Team
Medical Director, Nursing Representatives
(Director of Nursing, Assist. Director of Nursing), Administrator,
Resident Admissions Coordinator, Diversional Therapy Director,
Social Workers and family members.
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Though
a resident may meet all of the criteria, beds may
not be available on the unit. Every effort is made
to place them there as availability allows.
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Special
Needs Unit Objectives
 1.
To maintain and maximize functional levels of residents with
dementia (alertness,
accurate sensation, strength/mobility/cogitive skills)
2.
To allow freedom and autonomy for residents.
3.
To provide safe and dignified care for residents.
4.
To use the least restrictive environment.
5.
To maximize socialization for residents.
6.
To maintain and /or attain highest ADL skills, to enhance
physical health and to prevent depression and to heighten
self-esteem.
7.
To create an interdisciplinary team that will make continuity
of care a reality.
Helpful
Links:
Alzheimers
Association
Alzheimers Foundation
Dementia
Online Information
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