Homely touches make all the difference to dementia ward

The additions to Mallard ward at Doncaster Royal Infirmary have been “specially designed with the needs of people with dementia in mind”, and have now won praise from patients’ relatives.

The ward opened as a pilot in January this year, to see if “relatively simple changes” to the design, furnishings and atmosphere would make a difference to the hospital experience for people with dementia.

And hospital bosses now say that the results are “so impressive” that they plan to “roll out similar improvements elsewhere, as wards are developed or refurbished.”

Dr Rod Kersh, clinical director for care of older people at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Something as simple as using a normal china mug has made a big difference to our patients.

“We all know ourselves that tea or coffee tastes nicer out of a china mug than a paper cup, so it’s not surprising that we’ve found patients are happier to drink from them.

“As a result, they are much less at risk of becoming dehydrated.”

He added: “Simple touches like clocks on the wall, books and pictures can also make a huge difference to how the hospital environment feels to someone with dementia.

“We’re very pleased with what we have achieved so far on Mallard and are keen to keep learning and improving.”

Patients on Mallard ward who are not bed-bound are encouraged to wear their own clothes and eat their meals at a laid table, complete with a tablecloth and doilies.

Families and friends are welcomed onto the ward at any time and the ward staff have been specially trained to understand dementia.

Each room has a unique picture outside, making it easier for patients to find their way around and remember where their bed is.

Signs for the bathroom have pictures, for people whose memory for words has been affected by their dementia, while a range of books, games and music have also been provided.

Nina Forey, who visits her father Lawrence Jackson on Mallard Ward, said he is impressed.

She added: “It’s a really lovely ward and the staff are very professional. They really have a good understanding of how to care for someone with dementia.

“The ward feels more homely and relaxed, much less clinical, and more personal.”