Glencairn Care Home in Edinburgh has been celebrating individuality through person-centred approaches. The home has introduced Artificial Intelligence (AI), Namaste care and other tools such as staff matching documents and the digital pain tool, Painchek.
The home used staff profiles and staff matching tools to develop wellbeing companions to replace a key worker system. From this, relationships have flourished developing more trust between staff and residents.
Through person-centred care planning, staff have identified residents’ interests, strengths and wishes and now residents are far more engaged.
Wellbeing companions have supported some residents to achieve their dreams.
Staff have also noticed a reduction in stress and distress with some residents coming out of their bedrooms more, some spending more time outdoors, and spending time with others, becoming less isolated.
Olive, a resident in the home said: “I have had the best day of my life in years. It really is marvellous all of the work you are doing in here. It has honestly given me a sense of purpose again.”
Initially staff were hesitant, however after seeing some immediate results, particularly through using Painchek and the Namaste approach, staff have been more motivated to take part in activities and overall, morale has improved.
Emily, team leader said: “It has been so rewarding seeing the residents engage, in particular residents having conversations where they wouldn’t have had before.”
Some other benefits have shown improved outcomes for residents living with stress and distress and encouraged independence. The home has also seen a reduction in pain and anti-psychotic medication throughout using Painchek.
Jozi, care home manager said: “I can’t begin to explain how fulfilling and empowering this change of practice and essentially change of culture has been for us.
“To see a reduction in medications is rewarding alone, but to see the improvement in residents’ wellbeing has been remarkable.”
Care News from the Care Inspectorate