Meeting the Needs of Patients: Understanding Dementia Care Centres

Dementia care centres play a vital role in providing specialized care and support for seniors facing cognitive challenges. As individuals age, conditions such as dementia can significantly impact their quality of life, requiring tailored assistance and a supportive environment. Dementia care centres are designed to meet the unique needs of seniors living with dementia by offering a range of services and amenities aimed at enhancing their well-being and fostering a sense of community. From personalized care plans to therapeutic activities, these centres strive to create a nurturing and safe environment where seniors can thrive despite the challenges posed by dementia. In this article, we will explore how different dementia care centres offer these essential aspects of dementia care and how they cater to the specific needs of seniors, ensuring they receive the highest standard of care and support.

Cognitive-focused approach

At NTUC Health Dementia Day Care, individuals can access suitable programs such as the THOR® (Therapy Through Occupational Roles) program, designed for those with mild dementia. This program aids in maintaining cognitive and physical functions by offering opportunities to participate in everyday tasks. Another program available is PEACE (Personalised and Enriching Activities to Care for Enhanced dementia), which encompasses sensory-rich activities tailored for individuals with moderate to severe dementia. Additionally, a variety of services are provided, including reminiscence therapy, music therapy, and intergenerational activities.

 Person-centred care approach

AWWA Dementia Day Care Centre provides maintenance day care services to clients who have mild to severe dementia, that aims to slow down the deterioration of clients’ physical and mental functions. They adopt a person-centered care approach, and seek to provide respite for caregivers of persons diagnosed with dementia. They hold these activities tailored for their dementia clients: 

•  Occupational Therapy
• Reminiscence Therapy
• Social and Recreational Activities
• Community-based Nursing
• Centre-based Nursing
• Case Management
• Caregiver Support Programme

Confidence building approach

At Orange Valley, the trained Dementia care team provides a personalized program for individuals with dementia. They assist clients in building confidence and reclaiming independence through engagement in activities and positive interactions. They offer two programmes for their clients; Live-Well Programme and Live-Joy Programme. 

Live-Well Programme is suitable for Mild – Moderate Dementia: 

• One-to-one / Small groups (up to 2-5 pax)
• Physical activities/games
• Mind stimulation
• Reminiscence therapy
• Music and movement
• Creative/ expressive arts
• Life journaling
• Self-care
• Meal preparation
• Work simulation based on past occupations
• Life-long learning
• Pet Therapy
• Gardening

Live-Joy Programme is suitable for Moderate – Severe Dementia:

• One-to-one care
• Assisted physical activities/ stretching
• Multi-sensory experiences/ Namaste Care
• Relaxation
• Music appreciation
• Therapeutic art
• Animal-assisted therapy
• Robotic animals
• Doll therapy
• Garden walk
• Assisted self-care

The uniqueness of the program lies in its personalized approach, meticulously crafted to cater to the individual needs of each person with dementia. Every therapy plan and activity undergoes thorough review by a registered Occupational Therapist, ensuring alignment with the specific requirements and capabilities of the clients. Tailored not only to their abilities but also to their interests, the program offers a diverse range of activities designed to stimulate cognitive function and promote overall well-being. Importantly, autonomy and empowerment are prioritized, allowing individuals with dementia to make choices regarding their participation in activities, fostering a sense of agency and dignity within the care environment.

Ability-Based Approach

Care Corner Singapore provides dementia day care services to seniors with mild to advanced dementia. Activities are customised to seniors’ abilities and designed to slow down the deterioration of physical and mental functions. 

Activities include:

• Reminiscence therapy
• Group exercises
• Brain-stimulating games
• Art and music therapy 
• Our fixed daily schedule also creates a routine and structure that can give seniors a sense of security and familiarity.

Dementia care centre aim to provide vital support for seniors with cognitive challenges. Through personalized programs and therapeutic activities, they prioritize well-being and autonomy, offering respite for caregivers and enhancing quality of life. These centres exemplify compassionate care, ensuring seniors receive the support they need to navigate dementia with dignity and comfort.