Trust charity funds new dementia resource library for University Hospital of Hartlepool.
The 60-piece library boasts a variety of products including memory recollection aids, sensory stimulation and functional equipment.
Laura Greig, specialist dementia occupational therapist, said: “We requested funding as we found that our patients’ families were spending money on products not knowing if they’d work.
“One of our patients even spent over £200 on activities that ended up not working!
“During the cost of living crisis, this will reduce the pressure on carers and families to purchase iteme.”
Every person we meet is unique and what works for one won’t necessarily work for another. There’s also growing evidence that providing cognitively stimulating activity can be used as a non-pharmacological preventative strategy to prevent delirium.
This library will not only support our patients but hopefully help families to better engage with those they are caring for
Laura Greig, specialist dementia occupational therapist
The library supports the Allen’s Cognitive Level Screening (ACLS) tool that measures levels of cognitive processing, learning potential and problem solving.
The community team can recommend products to help support the patient, depending on their level of function.
Families can borrow products from the dementia resource library on a two-week basis, giving them the confidence to go out and purchase the correct products.
Laura and her colleague submitted the application as part of North Tees and Hartlepool Together’s charitable general fund applications.
It’s a distressing time for patients’ families when their loved one is diagnosed with dementia. Our library will not only provide carers with respite through occupying activities but also help to educate other members of the family on the diagnosis and how they can help.
Families just want what’s best for their loved one and we wanted to give them the resources to be able to achieve that.
Janette McGuire, specialist dementia occupational therapist
Products include talking photo albums, colouring books, jigsaw puzzles and sensory boards.
It also provides functional products such as timed pill dispensers, big-buttoned remote controls and LED lights.
Suzi Campbell, fundraising co ordinator, was thrilled to support the project.
“The library will make a huge difference, not only to our most vulnerable patients but to their family and carers.
“Thank you to our donors, it is your support that allows us to bring projects like this to life.
Find out ways you can support our Trust’s charity