title: Taking the community into the home.
abstract: This paper describes a system for caring for people with dementia that is tailored to their previous lifestyle. People are carefully assessed so that they can be assigned to the group that most closely matches their cultural norm. One group might have lace tablecloths and sherry before meals whilst another group, those who enjoy homemaking, might have the opportunity to help with everyday tasks such as cleaning and the preparation of meals. Activities are never forced; they are simply available and matched to the individual's cultural and preferred norms. The authors claim that clients cared for in this way gain confidence and interact more fully with family and carers. Staff reported increased job satisfaction and this was reflected in reduced staff turnover.
authors.affiliation: MSc Gerontological Practice, University of Portsmouth.
authors.forename: Ruth
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Sander