St Andrew’s supports World Alzheimer’s Month 2

We are proud to support World Alzheimer’s Month, an international campaign which aims to raise awareness and challenge the stigma that surrounds dementia.  

The word dementia describes a set of symptoms that may include memory loss, difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language, and often changes in mood, perception or behaviour. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia; it causes abnormal proteins to accumulate around brain cells, causing the cells themselves to die.

St Andrew’s cares for around 50 people with complex dementia at our Northampton site. Our patients are with us because they are presenting challenging behaviour, cognitive decline and limited or inappropriate social interaction. In addition, many patients have additional physical and mental health needs that require management. We provide safe, stimulating and highly specialised care to help support these patients and manage their conditions.

We are committed to understanding each individual’s needs in order to provide them with the best possible care, personalised to them. Within our Neuropsychiatry pathway, we provide a variety of specialist therapies which help our dementia patients to enjoy life, while managing their symptoms.

We encourage the use of positive strategies, and try to engage patients in morale-boosting activities and positive discussions. We also use a variety of technology to comfort, challenge and relax our patients – in fact, a recent visit from the Care Quality Commission led inspectors to describe us as ‘Outstanding’ in this area.

Read more: Click here to find out more about our Neuropsychiatry Pathway

The Alzheimer’s Society has published a wealth of information regarding the types of dementia, support available and advice on how to support and care for someone with dementia.

To join the Twitter conversation around World Alzheimer’s Month, use the #WorldAlzMonth hashtag.

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