Challenging behaviours in dementia

The disorientation and distress of dementia can pose many changes and challenges, including restlessness and aggression. Rather than blaming the individual, it is important to react empathetically. Often, such behaviour is less a symptom of dementia and more an attempt to communicate an unmet need. Viewed in this way, it is easier to rationalise and determine a care plan that is both appropriate and effective.

With three secure and independently operated floors, Fordingbridge Care Home was purpose-built to provide first-class care for residents with dementia, Alzheimer's and Behaviours that Challenge. Allegra Care’s philosophy is to consider all dementia care options – not just medications, some of which may have negative side effects. To this end, and in order to identify any underlying causes of challenging behaviour, individuals should always be assessed first by a GP. Equipped with a clear diagnosis, our staff are then able to offer outstanding care in purpose-built facilities.

What are challenging behaviours in dementia?

Challenging behaviours in dementia can take many forms, from restlessness, disorientation and an individual experiencing a different reality to that of their carers, to aggression, both verbal and physical.

Clearly, to family and loved ones who have no professional training or experience to fall back on, such changes in personality and behaviour can be extremely challenging and distressing. Under such circumstances, it’s essential to seek medical advice from your GP as soon as possible.

A care home built with dementia care in mind

Behaviours that Challenge call for a care environment that meets specific security, medical and other logistical needs. In collaboration with a leading UK authority in dementia care, Fordingbridge Care Home was designed from the ground up to provide world-class facilities for exceptional dementia care.

Everything, from interior layout and design, lighting and security to furnishings and equipment specifications in bedrooms, bathrooms and communal areas, has been specifically designed to prioritise wellbeing and safety.

exterior of Fordingbridge Care Home on a sunny day

Qualified care team support residents with challenging behaviours

Complementing Fordingbridge Care Home’s outstanding facilities, our care and nursing team have been trained to the highest levels in care for individuals with dementia and Behaviours that Challenge.

Supported by continuous professional development and regular performance assessment, all staff have been selected on the basis of a rigorous interview and screening process to ensure their ability to excel in one of elderly care’s most challenging sectors.

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Peace of mind that your loved one is cared for

When enlisting specialist care for a loved one with dementia and challenging behaviours, their wellbeing is naturally your overwhelming priority. Without exception, all of our care staff who look after residents with Behaviours that Challenge have the required qualifications and professional accreditations to give you the peace of mind that your loved one could not be in safer hands, day and night.

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An often overlooked advantage of being purpose-built is the fact that Fordingbridge Care Home has kitchen facilities to rival many commercial restaurant operations.

In this setting, chef and our kitchen team produce an outstanding menu of daily changing cuisine, using fresh local ingredients in season whenever possible. A varied and nutritious diet is obviously essential for all residents, but the role it plays in the wellbeing of those with challenging behaviours is of fundamental importance.

hairdresser salon in a care home with hairdressing stations set up across the room

Engaging activities for all residents in our New Forest home

Dementia and Behaviours that Challenge involve significant shifts, not just in mood, but in personality. It is these mental and intellectual aspects that make an engaging programme of activities so essential. In most cases, routine and predictability are important.

At Fordingbridge Care Home, we go to great lengths to tailor activity programmes to each individual’s specific preferences, adapting our provision as their needs change.

What person centred-care means to us at Fordingbridge Care Home

We’re all different. No two individuals are affected in quite the same way by dementia, and Behaviours that Challenge call for a bespoke programme of care. Upon admission, we establish, in conjunction with the resident and their loved ones or carers, a meticulously specified care plan.

As time passes, an individual’s needs change and - again in close collaboration with their loved ones – we review these changes and adapt our care provision accordingly.