We are experienced and knowledgeable about dementia through our housing with care accommodation. At Fold Housing, we see the person and not their dementia. We actively encourage our residents to express their personality. Each resident has their own tailored care plan, which reflects their tastes, interests and individual care needs, and where possible they remain in control of their affairs.

We aim to prolong our residents’ cognitive and mental skills through a range of daily activities, which enable them to exercise their minds and bodies. This not only engages them but also provides an ideal opportunity for them to socialise.

We understand that it is not only the person with dementia that is affected by this condition; it’s their family, friends and carers as well. We will offer you the support you need as your loved one progresses through the condition.

Our staff continue to build on their knowledge of dementia and aim to use best practices wherever possible. The team at Fold Housing attend structured training to help them provide the best and most appropriate care and support for people with dementia. We are dedicated to enhancing the lives of all the residents.

Our Care Services Manager holds a Masters Degree in Dementia Studies and is always willing and able to meet with potential resident’s families and next of kin to discuss any concerns they may have for their relative moving into housing with care. Martina Conroy, our Director of Housing and Care Services, is willing to facilitate open evenings should these be requested by family members. This service is available to both current residents and future residents interested in living in Fold Housing’s housing with care accommodation.

Learning More About Dementia

We probably all know a little bit about dementia but did you know it wasn’t a natural part of ageing? We encourage you to read Living Well with Dementia and to download the factsheet Practical Tips for Living Well with Dementia available from The Alzheimer Society of Ireland

What is dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term which describes a number of conditions which cause damage to brain cells. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common type of dementia. The word dementia describes a set of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language.

Different types of dementia can lead to different experiences and problems for the person with dementia and their loved ones.

Everyone’s experience is different and not everyone will experience all the symptoms, some people may experience a mix of two types of dementia.

Common symptoms include:

  • Memory loss
  • Difficulty thinking things through and planning
  • Problems communicating:
  • Being confused about time or place
  • Sight and visual difficulties
  • Mood changes or difficulties controlling emotions.

Insights into Dementia

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland runs a 5 week course aimed at supporting family members who are caring for loved ones with Dementia. The course consists of five sessions which are held on a weekly basis, usually in the evenings. Each session lasts about 2.5 hours. Follow the link below to find out about the next course and apply to attend:
http://www.alzheimer.ie/Services-Support/About-our-Services/Training.aspx

You can find out about the Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s services by clicking the link below.
http://www.alzheimer.ie/services-support.aspx

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland

You can call the Alzheimer National Helpline on 1 800 341 341
or email helpline@alzheimer.ie

Lines are open six days a week: Monday to Friday 10.00am-5.00pm and
Saturday 10.00am to 4.00pm

Useful Links

http://www.alzheimer.ie
http://www.alzheimer.ie/Get-Involved/Dementia-Friendly-Communities.aspx
http://www.sonasapc.ie

Acknowledgement

Fold Housing is grateful to The Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland for permission to use the above information taken from their website.