Park Hall care home working in partnership with Approach

Park Hall care home in Bentilee, Stoke-on-Trent, supported residents’ relatives by acting and listening to their comments and suggestions following discussions about dementia support. 

As a result, they invited Approach Dementia Support to give a presentation during its Care Home Open Day week event.

Home manager Rachael Smith said:

Approach Dementia Support recently became part of Dougie Mac Hospice so I invited them both to Park Hall to give our relatives the opportunity to ask relevant questions about how to emotionally support their loved ones who are living with dementia and who could also give them advice and guidance about obtaining further support.

Dawn Worthington, daughter of resident Doris, said:

The presentation and Q&A was very useful and very informative. Gaynor put me at ease with some worries I have had about mum’s behaviour. 

Gaynor explained to me that mum was exhibiting the usual symptoms of her type of dementia. I know that mum’s stories are not true and I used to feel guilty by agreeing with her, I felt as though I was lying to her. But now I realise that I was doing the right thing as it makes her happy.

Janet Berresford, daughter of Ethel, said:

The information that Gaynor gave me made me realise I wasn’t on my own. Mum was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s when she was living at home during the pandemic. I was not offered or given any support or information. I have learnt more today listening to and asking questions of Gaynor and know that I would have the support of Approach going forward.

Steven Brown, son in law of Jean, said,

Even though I thought I was pretty clued up on dementia and its effects on a person, Gaynor has reinforced in me the importance of a Lasting Power of Attorney.

Gaynor Morton, who leads on Dementia Carer Support as part of the hospice’s dementia services, said,

The most important piece of advice I give to people is to talk and plan things out. Don’t dodge the issues and get all the information and consent from your loved ones while you can. Approach and Dougie Mac can support you with a Lasting Power of Attorney, Advanced Care Planning and Wills.

Following the meeting with Approach and Dougie Mac, Park Hall will be holding regular meetings with relatives so that they can continue to share their thoughts and support each other.

Park Hall in Bentilee is a contemporary residential care home set in modern and comfortable surroundings with 60 beds. To find out more, click here.