Carers and relatives are seeing real differences in their loved ones thanks to innovative work taking place in Wishaw General Hospital.
Karen Wilson, senior charge nurse, said: “Through our dementia work, we know that many of the stress and distress symptoms shown by some of our elderly patients can be related to inactivity and social isolation.
“To address this issue, and provide greater stimulation and interaction, the care of the elderly team at the hospital introduced ‘The Club’. This is an area within the day hospital where patients can come and take part in social activities. It is a great example of person-centred care.”
The activities that take place within ‘The Club’ include reminiscent boxes, bingo, watching old films and TV footage, listening to music and singing.
The Club also provides an opportunity for visitors to attend so they can help identify activities and spend time with their relative or friend.
Karen added: “The feedback from relatives and carers has been really positive. They are finding that their relatives are much more interactive during visiting times.”
Anne-Marie Chiswell, from Motherwell, whose father was in hospital and attended ‘The Club’ said: “When your parent is in hospital you are really worried that they are stuck in a bed undergoing medical treatment.
“When my dad was taken out of the ward and in among people I could see a real difference in him. I can’t thank the staff enough. My dad got his appetite back and he was sleeping better at night too.”
Kathleen Harbinson, from Motherwell, added: “When I came to ‘The Club’ to visit my mum, it was like seeing a different person, it was like I had my mother back. I could spend longer with her at visiting time as she was more interactive.
“I went out of the hospital skipping with joy after seeing my mum in The Club.”
Janice Miles, senior nurse for older people at Wishaw General Hospital, said: “Staff and visitors alike are really seeing the benefits of The Club and, more importantly, our patients are feeling the difference too.”