What is the role of a Dementia Care Manager?
As Dementia Care Manager, I am responsible for the leadership and management of our dementia care community. Ensuring the dementia care provided is of high quality and relationship centred, as well as championing our dementia and welcome home strategy across the home.
What qualifications do you need?
A level 4 or 5 NVQ in Health and Social Care, or willingness to work towards it, as well as having a passion for caring for people living with dementia. Experience and knowledge of evidence-based practice in dementia care with at least four years of experience in long term care of older people, including people living with dementia.
What does a usual day look like for you?
When the home opens, a usual day for me is working with the team on the dementia community to ensure that our residents needs are met. I will review care plans and risk assessments, updating them as required. Also, I will communicate with other professionals and work in partnership with them to ensure the best outcomes for our residents.
I keep in regular contact with family members and ensure that they are supported as needed. I coach and support team members, and promote the Welcome Home Dementia Strategy. I am also involved in recruiting and inducting new team members.
What is the most important part of your role?
The most important part of my role is building relationships with future residents and their families to enable us to deliver high-quality care.
Leading and directing the team in line with our dementia strategy, and being available to support and guide the team as well as residents’ family and friends.
How do you ensure all team members are educated on Hallmark’s Dementia Strategy?
I am involved in inducting new team members. I also discuss and communicate the dementia strategy at team meetings to ensure the whole home has a thorough understanding. I also provide refresher training sessions to the whole team.
What advice would you give to someone caring for a loved one living with dementia?
Always remember that the person might not always remember who you are, but they will never forget how you make them feel. Also live their reality and have patience, focus on remaining abilities rather than what might have gone.
What do you enjoy the most about being a Dementia Care Manager?
I most enjoy being able to make a difference to the lives of residents and their families, but also to our team members. I find it extremely rewarding to see a smile on a resident’s face but equally to see a team member grow within their role.
How do you spend your free time?
In my spare time I like to catch up with friends, eat out, and go to the gym (although this is not as often as it should be!) I also really enjoy walking my dog- especially along by the river or at the beach- Being outside, especially in the sun!