Hospitalisation
With Dementia
Many people living with dementia may need to go into hospital for treatments, tests, or a planned operation. This can be a worrying time for both the person with dementia and their partner/family.
HOSPITAL ADMISSION
As hospital admission can sometimes trigger distress, confusion, and delirium for someone with dementia and can contribute to a decline in functioning, preparing for a stay in hospital is key.
Below are a few suggestions which may help someone with dementia and their carer prepare for a planned stay in hospital:
- If they are worried, ask them what information you can find that may help to reassure them.
- Involve them when deciding which nightwear and clothing to pack in their hospital bag.
- Discuss any belongings they may wish to take with them to keep busy, such as a music device, books, or magazines. It can also help to bring any personal items that will help the person feel more settled, such as a photo album.
- Label any clothing or belongings with the person’s name in case these get lost.
- Ask if you can help with anything at home while they are away – such as putting the bins out or watering the plants.
- Arrange any transport that may need to be booked ahead.
- Consider filling in a This is me A document that hospital staff can refer to, so they can better understand and support the person being admitted.
Not all hospital admissions can be planned in advance. Sometimes a person with dementia will have to be admitted to hospital suddenly. It can be useful to have a list of things ready to pack into a hospital bag.
- items that the person needs in everyday life, like glasses (labelled)
- any medication that they are taking
- snacks
- anything that the person usually finds relaxing – such as knitting or a blanket.
- You may wish to check if there are any schemes that are used in your area such as ReSPECT or MedicAlert®. These can help the person with dementia to communicate their wishes in an emergency (These need to be completed in advance).
Carers
As a carer what would happen to your loved one should you be involved in an accident or suddenly be taken ill? Having a Carers Emergency Card on you at all times will inform paramedics and hospital staff that you are a carer. Ensuring that you have information regarding alternative care provisions for your loved one detailed in their Advance Care Plan will help aleviate some of the worry for you.
Having a contingency plan incase you are taken ill is important, but it is more important that family and friends know where to find it and make it available to the hospital staff.
Please see the link below for further information:
OTHER POPULAR PAGES
Community News – Find out all that is happening in your local area from groups, clubs, and events to campaigns, such as Dementia Action Week. Find out what’s happening near you.
Community Blog – short informative stories written by our readers. Both professionals and people living with dementia or caring for someone with dementia.
