Care provider honours the spirit

AN AWARD-WINNING program aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people with dementia at one of Geelong’s most respected not-for-profit aged care providers.
With more people developing dementia as they age, creating tailored care and support is critical.
Uniting AgeWell Kalkee Community Nangatta in Belmont is introducing an innovative program that provides care aimed specifically at supporting people with dementia in residential aged care.
The UA Namaste program – meaning to honour the spirit within – uses the five main senses to connect with people who may no longer be able to communicate and so reduce their stress and anxiety.
Specially designed Namaste rooms promote an environment that instils feelings of wellbeing, allowing the person to focus on sensory components through massage, aromatherapy, natural light, visuals of calming elements and familiar music from the resident’s era.
Palliative care specialist and UA Namaste program leader Kerry Whitlock said residents on the program are more responsive, less anxious and maintaining weight.
“The Namaste care model works to decrease a client’s stress and anxiety and, consequently, their family’s,” she said.
Kalkee Nangatta Care Manager Glenda Harvey said television screens had been turned into fish tanks and artificial fires had been installed in sitting rooms where residents can sit calmly, reducing anxiety.
Walls have been decorated with memorabilia to promote reminiscence, a sensory room has been established and activities are based on a person’s preferences.
“It’s a warm, family environment with more activities that help create a sense of calm and purpose,” she said.
Staff at Nangatta are undergoing training in Namaste care with the full roll-out of the program to be complete by the end of the year.
Uniting AgeWell Kalkee Nangatta is at 206 High Street, Belmont.
For more information contact the Uniting AgeWell team on 5243 6688.