Dementia is a life-changing condition that touches countless families and friends across the UK. Each person’s experience of living with dementia is unique, requiring a tailored approach to care. Our experienced teams are committed to providing outstanding care and support, ensuring the wellbeing of residents as well as families and friends. From specialist teams to therapeutic approaches, OSJCT offers a comprehensive, individualised approach to dementia care.

Understanding dementia

Dementia is an umbrella term for conditions affecting memory, thinking, and communication, including Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia impacts every individual differently, underscoring the importance of personalised care plans. OSJCT employs skilled dementia specialists, including Admiral Nurses and Dementia Leads, to guide families, friends as well as colleagues through the complexities of dementia care with empathy and expertise.

Admiral Nurses: skilled dementia specialists

OSJCT is one of only ten care providers in the UK with a dedicated team of Admiral Nurses, employing five of the seventeen specialists working in this field. These specialist nurses, who are supported by the charity Dementia UK, provide emotional support, practical advice, and in-depth assessments to meet the needs of OSJCT residents and their families as well as employees. 

Admiral Nurses also develop and lead dementia-specific training programmes for care teams at OSJCT, ensuring that residents receive the highest quality care. Angie Williams, Lead Admiral Nurse at OSJCT, explains: "Our skilled employees work closely with Admiral Nurses to stay up to date with best practices in dementia care. This collaborative approach enhances the wellbeing and quality of life for those who live and work in our homes, or who visit."

Therapeutic approaches to care

Effective dementia care goes beyond medical support. OSJCT incorporates therapeutic approaches such as sensory activities, including gardening, music and art, as well as reminiscence sessions to enhance residents’ emotional wellbeing and mental health. 

Innovative technology also creates a more engaging and comforting environment for residents. Paro, a therapeutic, social robot seal, provides emotional support and companionship. Its soft fur, responsive movements, and soothing sounds help reduce stress, anxiety, and agitation while encouraging social interaction. Similarly, light projectors like the Happiness Programme engage residents in stimulating games and activities that promote cognitive function, motor skills, and social bonding. 

John Loveridge, a resident at Lake House in Banbury, shares his enthusiasm for interactive technology: "I really enjoy using the light projector. It’s relaxing and makes activities more fun. It’s a nice way to spend time with others and helps brighten up the day ."

Life Story: the heart of personalised care

A standout initiative at OSJCT is “All About Me” Life Story work - a personalised record of a resident’s history, their interests, and significant relationships. This invaluable tool underpins care as well as supports residents to maintain their sense of identity and fosters trust and deeper connections with caregivers and loved ones.

Life Stories take various forms, including scrapbooks, videos, or memory boxes. They can include details such as childhood memories, career milestones, favourite foods, and daily routines. By understanding the past and integrating these personal stories into care plans, our teams ensure that every resident is treated as an individual with unique preferences and needs.