Case Study

Ethel is a new resident in a care home, who has been diagnosed with dementia. She had previously lived at home on her own, however, as her condition deteriorated she forgot to eat and was found on several occasions, wandering the roads outside her home in her dressing gown. Her daughter visited at lunch times but often found her mother had not eaten. A period of having carers in the home three times a day was also tried. But eventually, for Ethel’s safety, she was admitted to the care home for 24 hour care. The decision to put her mother in the home was really difficult for her daughter. 1. Do you think Ethel’s daughter’s decision was right? 2. Was the decision to put Ethel into the care home based on the social model or medical model of dementia? It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the response you have chosen to this scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague and ask them to tell you if they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your tutor.