Caring for people with forms of Dementia is a multi-faceted task. So what does it mean to have quality of life while living with a form of Dementia. We have here our Quality of Life Outcomes that may serve to give you a better idea of what it means to truly care.
Jura Care Village’s Quality of Life Outcomes:
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As a person with dementia, I have the best possible physical well being:
- I am well hydrated
- I am well nourished
- I am comfortable – free from pain
- I am physically active
- I am clean and hygienic
- I am safe
- My medical needs are being fully attended to and are being treated by professionals knowledgeable in dementia care.
- I receive the least restrictive intervention for my behaviour symptoms
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As a person with dementia, I have meaningful relationships:
- I am supported in maintaining ongoing relationships as desired
- I am provided opportunities to develop new relationships as desired with family, friends, peers, etc.
- I have the opportunity to maintain an intimate* relationship with my spouse/partner as desired within my capacity (*intimate = physically and emotionally close, sexual as person’s competency/consent allows)
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As a person with dementia, I have caregivers who are educated and supported:
- I receive quality care for all my needs and desires by educated professionals
- I receive quality care from patient and empathic professionals
- I receive quality care from professionals who understand me, and the mental illness I have
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As a person with dementia, I have hope because my future is valued and supported:
- I participate to my capacity in all decisions effecting my life
- I am useful and make contributions of value
- I plan and do things I’ve wanted to do while I can
- I have the emotional support and the encouragement I need
- I have positive things to look forward to and do
- I have a legally supported plan for my future needs and wishes
- My previous wishes are honoured as my capacity diminishes
- I continue practices that nourish me spiritually
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As a person with dementia, I am accepted and understood as an individual:
- I am treated as a person, not a disease, and am acknowledged as “present”
- I have regular opportunities to access and share my rich and meaningful past
- I practice rituals that comfort and calm me
- I continue my own cultural lifestyle
- My orientation to time and reality is respected and supported
- I continue my familiar routines
- My environment is anchored in things I value that are familiar to me
- I have continuity in relationships with caregivers
- I have physical privacy
- My sexual identity is treated with respect
- I am free from all forms of abuse
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As a person with dementia, I am accepted and understood as an individual:
- I engage in activities that are meaningful to me daily
- I have the opportunity to participate in the life of my community
- I am able to communicate with others to my highest capacity
- I am able to do things independently with safe supports
- I enjoy the tastes, smells, sounds, and feelings of the real world
- I have the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and be in the outdoors
It is so important to define what it means to have a quality of life. Each resident’s outcomes will be slightly different. But once defined, one can realistically look at the situation at hand and truly make a difference in the care provided.
What wonderful outcomes the residents at Jura Care Village are offered. Thank you to each and every one in your team. Blessings to you all.