Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Emma Hardy as the new Dementia Nurse Specialist. Emma began her new role in January, visiting care homes throughout Argyll and Bute.
Dementia is a range of symptoms linked to a decline in cognitive function, impacting things like memory, language and the ability to carry out daily activities. It is not a singular disease but rather a broad range of symptoms that includes various conditions, with Alzheimer's disease being the most prevalent.
Diagnosis is typically carried out through a combination of medical evaluations, cognitive assessments and brain imaging. Once a diagnosis has been reached, a personalised care plan is created, concentrating on symptom self-management to improve quality of life. This approach aims to assist individuals in living as independently as possible in their own environments for as long as possible
Multidisciplinary teams, including GPs, neurologists, psychiatrists, nurses and social workers, collaborate to provide comprehensive care. This may involve medical treatments, such as medications to slow the progression of symptoms, as well as community-based early interventions like cognitive behaviour therapy, occupational therapy and support groups.
In the upcoming months, Emma will continue to visit care homes and concentrate on several key initiatives aimed at further improving dementia care within local care homes. Her priorities will include delivering regular training sessions to staff, providing guidance and professional expertise in care planning, and working closely with multi-disciplinary health and social care teams.
Mary-Anne Douglas, Care Homes Lead Nurse at Argyll and Bute HSCP, stated: "We are delighted to welcome Emma into her new role. Dementia care is a key priority for us, and Emma’s specialised knowledge and passion for supporting residents, their families and staff will further improve dementia residential care. Her early contributions are already reinforcing the support available to teams and residents, and we look forward to the positive outcomes of her role in the months ahead."