The use of volunteers in Dementia patients Lizzy Goad Psychology Coordinator Department of Clinical Psychology Salisbury District Hospital

How do we use volunteers?  Volunteers are specially trained in helping people with dementia, cognitive impairment and communication difficulties.  They receive monthly training and regular supervision.  Currently running on all of the elderly care wards at SDH, in the process of expanding to every ward within the hospital.

How does it help?  Improves cognitive and social stimulation.  Research suggests this can decrease levels of anxiety and depression in an inpatient setting.  Improves patient satisfaction.  Increases self confidence, self worth and maintains or helps recreate patient identity.

What do they do?  Time  Listen  Patient orientation  Memory - Work through games  Activities  Social groups

A future for volunteers in Dementia care?  For every patient with dementia to have access to regular volunteers who are trained to help Dementia patients with the problems they may face.  Continue to meet the psychological needs of our patients and enhance their experience in hospital through the use of volunteers.

Thank you Questions?