Health Inequality Insights

The Power of Presence: Inside the Namaste Room

NationalHEFT Season 3 Episode 1

Episode Description

Dr Su Khant Chei (GP) welcomes Dr Nicholas Neill, a GP and Trailblazer Fellow, and Nicky Ewen, Team Leader at the Firs Care Home in Felixstowe. We discuss Namaste Care, a person-centred approach to dementia care focusing on sensory engagement and human connection, and its innovative implementation at their care home.


Key Messages

  • Care home residents in the advanced stages of dementia often experience distress and agitation, and pharmacological management of this is not always optimal.
  • A Namaste Room was built to promote wellbeing using elements that interact with all five senses.
  • Measurable outcomes include positive feedback from families and residents, a reduction in GP requests for sedative medications, and increased staff morale.
  • A simple, person-centred idea can develop into a successful project if a team believes in it.


Resources

Photos of the Namaste Room:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16tXLpHCTd/?mibextid=wwXIfr

News article about the opening of the Namaste Room:

https://thecareruk.com/mayor-of-felixstowe-unveils-new-wellbeing-room-at-local-care-home-to-support-dementia-care/

Connect with us

If you would like to get involved, have any questions, comments, or topic suggestions, please email us at nationalheft@gmail.com. You can also connect with us on https://future.nhs.uk/NationalHEFT/groupHome and https://twitter.com/NationalHEFT


Disclaimer

The information provided in this podcast, is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the content should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners are encouraged to consult with their own healthcare providers or seek appropriate medical guidance for any specific health concerns. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily represent the views of their respective institutions or organizations. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, but we cannot guarantee that all content is current, complete, or free from errors. Listeners are encouraged to verify any medical information from trusted sources and consult with their own qualified healthcare professionals. We hope this podcast serves as a valuable resource in promoting awareness and understanding of health inequalities and related topics.