Case Study
Harry is a 70-year-old gentleman who has dementia. For as long as was possible, he was cared for at home by his wife Mary.Harry has been admitted into a care home for a short stay. Mary and Harry’s daughters come in and explain what his needs are. They explain that he has always been slightly deaf but his dementia has caused an increase in communication problems, and that if you face Harry when talking to him, most things can be communicated. They also mention that he can get distressed and wander.On arrival, Harry gets particularly distressed at unfamiliar surroundings or where there are a lot of people talking at once. Staff have found picture cards to be useful and Harry likes to have certain items close by. Jo is going to be Harry’s main carer.
- If you were Jo how would you explain to the other members of the team how to care for Harry?
- How could Jo support different communication abilities and needs?
It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the responses you have to the above scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague or friend and ask them to tell you whether 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 assessor.