EN-ABLE project helps dementia residents
Dr Leaper, Ms Holmes, Mrs Leaper
TLC Aged Care in partnership with La Trobe University has recently completed a project that challenges the way care for people with dementia related illnesses is managed.
The EN-ABLE project has a focus on providing a continuum of care by utilising management strategies for residents with dementia that enhance the quality of care by personalising the approach taken by staff on a daily and ongoing basis.
It was carried out in conjunction with Dr Margaret Winbolt who is a research fellow at the La Trobe University’s Australian Centre for Evidence Based Aged Care. Megan Holmes, a registered nurse at TLC Aged Care’s Homestead Lakes in Wallington, is the project team leader.
“We have generated significant change and now all staff at Homestead Lakes concentrate on person centred care which benefits not only the residents but the families as well,” said Ms Holmes who was recently recognised at the Deakin University 2010 Leadership in Nursing and Midwifery Awards – Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Leadership in a Rural Health Environment.
“I was stunned but thrilled when I heard my name announced – there were so many deserving people nominated. It was a very exciting moment,” she said.
“I am delighted that the valuable work we do and the care that we provide for all our residents has been recognised and rewarded at this level by the selection panel from Deakin University and Health Super. I am so proud of my team not only for their dedication and attention to detail with the project but the fact that it has generated positive and sustainable change for our residents and their families.
“Winning this award is a fantastic achievement for Megan and her team but more than that, this achievement will benefit the entire aged care industry. It demonstrates the passion, enthusiasm and dedication of the people who care for our elderly citizens,” said TLC co-proprietor, Dr John Leaper.
Jenny Leaper readily agreed and added, “Across all of our homes we are now responsible for the care of over 1,000 residents. We are very proud of all of our people and tonight we are especially proud of Megan, she is a living example of what we, and hopefully the entire aged care sector, strive for”.
