Person-centred care on its way

A six-month project to improve the care and support services for people living with dementia will take place at the Benetas St George’s residential facility in Victoria next month.

Home to more than 90 Victorian aged care residents, Benetas St George’s is just one of two recipients awarded the Fellowship with TIME for dementia, which is an organisation that conducts dementia-related training and studies; and encourages people to follow their career path in the dementia-field. Chris Smith, manager of Benetas St George’s, will lead the project, which received $5,000 funding.

Benetas is a not-for-profit aged care provider founded by the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne in 1948 and now provides support to more than 2,000 older Victorians within its 11 residential care facilities and through its extensive community care programs. Benetas is also a provider of day and overnight respite services.

Together with Benetas’ Dementia Support Advisor, Barb Donaldson, and partners at Alzheimer’s Australia, Ms Smith’s project aims to improve the standard of ‘person-centred care’ associated with dementia.

“The project will involve residents, clinical and care staff, volunteers, pastoral care staff, and families that share an understanding of a particular residents’ ‘personhood’ – what intrinsically makes this person who they are, and what is important to them,” Ms Smith says.

“Carers and others who interact with dementia-affected residents must be sensitive to their needs ‘in the moment’. This will help carers respond in a flexible and appropriate manner and recognise cues and subtle changes that communicate residents’ needs or wants,” she says.

During the project, Ms Smith will be supported by the TIME for dementia team with a preparatory workshop and mentoring by an expert in the care of people with dementia.

Project plans will include a group of eight to 10 Benetas St George’s staff and volunteers undertaking baseline training related to dementia care essentials through Alzheimer’s Australia.

A ‘tool-box’ of evidence-based learning and skills will also be developed, with the aim to replicate this in training scenarios across the aged care industry.

Executive manager of residential services, Jane Boag, says they are delighted for the Benetas St George’s team.

“The additional funding and support will allow us to fast track the good work that is already happening across Benetas with regard to dementia care, and to demonstrate Benetas’ leadership in continuously improving the way we provide care to our clients,” Ms Boag says.