Fit for a King: Getting Your Care Home Ready for the Coronation

Creating a fun, nurturing and inclusive environment is essential within care homes. Not only does it allow residents and staff to feel at ease, but it can also help to improve morale, inspire happiness and build enduring relationships.

As we approach the coronation of King Charles III, millions of people across the country will be coming together to celebrate. With communities across England and the rest of the world uniting in commemoration, it is equally important for care homes to join in the festivities, creating regal environments for residents and visitors to enjoy even beyond the coronation! 

Prepare Your Care Home for the Coronation

As we get older, it is easy to become socially isolated. In a recent study, Age UK found that 1.4 million older people in the UK are often lonely. With this in mind, care home owners must support and foster communities that bring residents, visitors and staff together, helping to create one big (royal) family. 

One way to achieve this is through events, parties and activities designed to encourage, entertain and delight your residents. Considering this, here are some ways you can bring the coronation celebrations into your care home for those who may even remember the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II back in 1953.

Why not embellish your space with patriotic colours and banners to help get residents into the spirit of the celebration? With splashes of red, white and blue bunting and flags, you could also enforce a colour-coordinated dress code so that everyone can get involved.

Craft activities can also be a great way for residents to engage with the king’s coronation whilst having a positive impact on their social, motor and cognitive skills. Activities such as colouring, painting and knitting can be excellent ways to bring residents together, encouraging them to communicate and remain active.

Get the Royal Treatment With Andway

With over 60 years of experience working within the healthcare sector, the team at Andway are well versed in delivering the royal treatment. 

Utilising our specialist advice and extensive knowledge of the care industry, we help care home owners across the country create positive, supportive environments where their residents can thrive. 

From premium account management to our 12-hour delivery promise, we go above and beyond to ensure that our clients across the UK are well-serviced, ensuring that each and every care home is treated like royalty.

Value for money is at the core of every service we provide. We’re always looking for ways to help your care home operate at its best whilst keeping costs in check. Not only does this allow you to focus on other aspects of residential care, but it also provides carers with more dedicated and valuable time with residents. 

Together, let's bring some of the royal treatment to your residents’ lives. Don’t hesitate to contact a member of our team for more information.

World Health Day 2023 

7th April 2023 marked the 75th anniversary of the internationally celebrated World Health Day. The World Health Organisation (WHO) along with 194 other Member States and partners will be coming together to call for a renewed drive for health equity. 

This year, the WHO is calling on governments and leaders to take action to help protect and invest in healthcare workers who are at the forefront of the response to health and climate emergencies. As the world emerges from the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, WHO’s roadmap to recovery includes a shift towards promoting health and well-being and discovering the root causes of diseases to help prevent them. 

What is World Health Day? 

During the aftermath of World War II, the Constitution of the World Health Organisation came into force to recognise that health was not only a fundamental human right but also essential for peace and security. 

75 years later, there has been continuous significant progress in protecting people from diseases and destruction, including the eradication of smallpox, reducing the cases of polio by 99% and saving millions of lives through childhood vaccinations. 

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus WHO Director-General, described the “vast inequities in access to health services, major gaps in the world’s defences against health emergencies, and threats from health harming products and the climate crisis” which can only be met with global cooperation. 

World Health Day 2023 

This year's celebration of World Health Day is an opportunity to look back at the public health successes that have helped to improve the global quality of life during the last seven decades. 

Although the standard of living has significantly evolved since 1948, World Health Day is a chance to encourage and motivate people to tackle the health challenges of today. There are many evolving problems that modern healthcare is currently facing, including a rapidly ageing population, increasing disability attributed to non-communicable diseases (NDCs) and climate change and natural disasters. 

The National Library of Medicine also found that low-middle income countries are experiencing these contemporary challenges along with the ongoing challenges of communicable diseases, making it more important than ever to dedicate our time to research.

World Health Day 2023 at Andway  

As a specialist healthcare supplier, Andway understands the immense challenges faced within the industry. We are passionate about actively promoting health equity each and every day through our work and are committed to continuous improvement. 

We would like to take the opportunity of World Health Day to say a big thank you to everyone who helps us to look after our communities. 

If you would like to know more about how we are working to support the healthcare industry, get in touch today. 

What is the Importance of Bed Servicing in Care Homes?

The population of UK care homes is over 400,000, with around 85% of patients living in residential settings. With this in mind, beds and mattresses are used daily within care facilities and are essential for the health and comfort of residents and carers.

Although bed maintenance is often overlooked by care operators, it continues to play a leading role in the safety of everyone within the facility.

Here, we explore the importance of bed maintenance and the different components to look out for when carrying out risk assessments.

What Types of Beds are in Care Homes?

There are various bed types and mattresses on the market that are specifically designed for care home environments. From profiling beds to pressure alternating mattresses, care homes should offer the correct sleeping arrangement to benefit the residents.

Profiling beds are among the most commonly found beds in care homes; their design contributes towards the comfort, quality of life and recovery of patients. Helping to support the neck, head, back, and hips, the mattress is made of different sections to independently reposition residents using motor-driven mechanisms. Due to the automated turning and tilting, the profiling beds also aid carers by reducing the risks of manual handling related injuries.

Why Should Beds Be Serviced?

Beds and mattresses are crucial pieces of equipment within care homes and should be regularly maintained and serviced to ensure they are serving the residents and carers correctly.

Adhere to Compliance

There are vital pieces of legislation that govern the maintenance of beds within care environments, including the Provision of Use and Work Equipment Regulation (PUWER) and the UK Medical Devices Regulations.

Both regulations state that equipment provided at work must be “safe for use, maintained in a safe condition and inspected regularly to ensure someone correctly installed it and it does not subsequently deteriorate”.

Reduce Resident Risk

The healthcare sector uses aids such as safety rails to protect vulnerable people from the risk of falling out of bed. However, if these devices are not maintained correctly, they can cause patients to become trapped and induce serious harm.

Having beds regularly serviced by qualified individuals allows care home operators to ensure the equipment complies with the BS EN Dimensional Requirements. However, it is also essential for workers to carry out regular risk assessments on beds and accessories to prioritise the health and wellbeing of the residents.

What Is the Process of Servicing Beds in Care Homes?

Each bed should be serviced and maintained according to the manufacturer's recommendations in the user manual.

During the service, the engineer should check the general condition of the bed, frame and all pivot points including the head and footboard. Any mechanical faults should be assessed along with fixing away any loose wires and cables. If applicable, the break functions should also be tested.

How Often Should Beds Be Serviced?

It is recommended that beds and mattresses are serviced by a qualified engineer at least every 12 months. Safety critical parts which could cause the equipment to fail should have a formal system of planned preventative maintenance to ensure that they are returned back to HSE standards.

At Andway, we offer service and inspections on all beds and mattresses. Our experienced engineers are here to ensure that your care home equipment meets PUWER standards while helping to save you money on emergency repairs.

For more information or to enquire about our maintenance services, contact us today!

The Importance of Nutrition in the Elderly 

Good nutrition is important for everyone no matter your age. Not only can a good diet boost your energy levels, but it can also help control your weight and mental health, which is especially important as we age. 

Nutritional problems in the elderly can cause several health complications, including a weakened immune system, lowered energy levels, and other chronic health issues. By making small changes to diet, such as incorporating more fruit and healthy fats into everyday meals, the risk of health implications can be reduced. 

Nutritional Concerns

When considering nutritional implications for the elderly, there are three main areas of concern that should be regularly monitored. 

Weight 

Both weight loss and weight gain frequently effect elderly people. It is important to keep an eye on their fluctuating weight to ensure they remain at a healthy level.

As people age, their metabolisms and energy levels decrease meaning that they have an increased risk of obesity. Alternatively, limited access to food and reduced appetites can lead to dramatic weight loss along with plummeting energy levels. 

Taste 

Elderly people can have problems recognising salty and bitter tastes, making it more common to oversalt food. Not only can this lead to an increased salt intake placing more strain on their hearts, but it can also cause a rise in blood pressure. 

Dehydration 

With the body being less able to conserve water and less attuned to thirst signals, elderly people are more likely to suffer from dehydration. This is a serious issue within older generations, with dehydration causing severe health implications. Encouraging a healthy water intake can help to reduce the risk of severe dehydration.

Avoid Cholesterol and Fat 

Cholesterol is important for keeping the cells in our bodies healthy. However, if cholesterol levels get too high, your blood vessels can become blocked, increasing chances of heart problems or strokes. 

High cholesterol can be caused by eating fatty foods, not exercising enough, and being overweight.  

What Foods Can Help Keep a Balanced Diet? 

There are many different foods which can nutritionally benefit the elderly. While fruits and vegetables are a staple food group for maintaining weight and energy levels, it is also important to incorporate healthy fats and proteins. 

Protein

Foods such as fish, lean meats, poultry, and eggs are all great sources of protein. Not only can these foods help to maintain your overall health, but they are also great for repairing the body after injury. 

Carbohydrates 

Potatoes, bread, rice, and other carbohydrates provide the body with energy and nutrients, which are essential for the body as we age. 

Fluids 

Fluids are equally as important as other food groups. Water is vital for keeping our bodies healthy and energised. Age UK recommends that the elderly should “aim for 6-8 glasses of fluid a day”. However, this does not have to be solely water; milk, tea, and soups count too. 

How Can Andway Help?

Here at Andway, we understand how important it is to maintain a healthy, balanced diet, especially as we grow older. 

Whether you are looking for catering supplies or weighing equipment, we have a range of supplies to help keep your patients healthy. For more information, contact a member of our team today!

Being a carer comes with many responsibilities; and with that, your top priority must be the well-being of your patients.

Urinary incontinence can significantly impact a person’s confidence and mental health. With issues including embarrassment and involuntary stress, it’s up to the caregiver to ensure their patient gets the help they need.

What Is Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence, also known as an overactive bladder, can affect anyone. The condition is more common in older people, particularly women, and it’s estimated that 1 in 2 of us will be diagnosed with a urological issue at some stage in our lives. 

The first signs of incontinence can include problems passing urine, both before and after the urge to go to the toilet. While incontinence is not an inevitable part of ageing, it can be managed and even prevented with effective treatments.

What Are the Two Main Types of Incontinence?

While many people experience occasional incontinence, others may have more frequent occurrences. However, there are two significant forms of incontinence to be aware of:

Stress Incontinence

Stress incontinence is when a person’s bladder leaks when it is put under sudden, extra pressure. Sudden stress can be caused when coughing or when lifting heavy objects.

Urge Incontinence

Urge incontinence can often cause a person to have the sudden and intense need to urinate with no control over it. This form of incontinence can be caused by conditions such as infections or neurological disorders.

How Can a Carer Help with Incontinence?

There are many causes for incontinence, but a continence service assessment can help to establish a plan for both the carer and the patient. The information collected during this assessment includes the patient’s medical history, how often the patient passes urine and the details of their diet and fluid intake.

Carers will also help to treat or manage incontinence depending on the type and cause of the person’s incontinence. They can also help with bladder and toilet training.

Changes to a person’s toilet situation can also be implemented, with aids such as a raised toilet or wall-mounted grab bar, providing support for patients who are particularly unsteady on their feet. It is also important to pay attention to a patient’s toilet patterns, considering how often they urinate to help the carer and doctor assess the severity of the situation.

When to Get Professional Help

If incontinence is causing significant disruption to a patient’s everyday lifestyle and is beginning to affect their mental health, it could be time to see a professional.

By visiting a GP or a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, both the carer and patient can begin to discuss the next steps. A GP will usually ask for a urine sample, which will help to check for problems such as blood in the urine. GPs will also commonly refer the patient to a specialist for extra testing including an ultrasound or urodynamic testing.

How Can Andway Help?

Here at Andway, we offer a range of practical solutions to help manage incontinence. From protective undergarments to PU mattress protectors, our product range includes almost everything you will need to keep incontinence under control.

If you would like more advice on incontinence, contact a member of our team today!

Promoting Dignity in Care: Everything You Need to Know

Fundamentally, we all want to be treated with respect and dignity. It is essential that people being looked after feel understood and supported, and have an active role in their own care.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) define dignity and respect as “making sure that people have privacy when they need and want it, treating them as equals and providing any support they might need to be autonomous, independent and involved in their local community.”

Dignity can be sustained within care by recognising a person’s strengths, ambitions and abilities, whilst working with them as an equal to ensure they are living a fulfilled life.

What Does Dignity in Care Involve?

Communication is crucial in creating an equal and respectful relationship. It is important to talk to patients in plain English, do not overcomplicate or patronise; some people may need more time to understand what you’re saying.

Try to consider ways of effectively communicating with people who have learning disabilities, sensory impairments or neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia or Alzheimer’s. Ensuring that the patient feels informed and confident in their care plan can help make them feel more comfortable and in control of their life.

Choice is another major factor in ensuring that patients have autonomy over their own life. Patients should feel empowered and ready to make an informed choice based on the information and advice that you provide. Information should not be manipulated or moulded, but instead portrayed in a way that is easy to understand and digest.

What Are the FREDA principles?

The FREDA principles were created to help care professionals understand and use the core values of dignity in care. The acronym stands for:

•          Fairness
•          Respect
•          Equality
•          Dignity
•          Autonomy

It is vital to remember these 5 human rights when treating an individual to ensure they remain happy and comfortable in care.

Ways to Promote Dignity in Care

Dignity in Care can be enacted through very basic acts that mean a lot. Below are some simple way to ensure your patients feel they are treated fairly.

Privacy

If your patient is asking for more privacy, it is important to listen and make that change. Be sure to always respect their personal space and possessions too.

Choice

Always involve the patient in any decisions that are to be made. This does not always relate to important healthcare issues. Many of us create our identity through how we dress, so allowing the patient to choose their clothing is one way to promote dignity.

Hygiene

Older people may need more support to maintain standards of hygiene that they are used to. This includes showering, oral hygiene, haircare and continence needs. Be sure to listen and respect the patients’ requests. For example, a female may not want to be washed by a male carer.

How Can Andway Help?

At Andway, we provide a range of products and services to help with your healthcare needs. Our service can assist you in creating personalised treatment plans, facilitating independence and supporting each patients’ needs.

For more advice, contact us now.

The 21^st of September is World Alzheimer’s Day, concluding a month-long international campaign to raise awareness surrounding the disease. The illness is the most common cause of dementia. Currently, there are 900,000 people living with dementia. By 2025, it has been projected that this statistic will rise to over 1,000,000 people, and 1.6 million by 2040.

Latest research has revealed that changes in the brain which led to Alzheimer’s start between 15 and 20 years before any symptoms present themselves. Current scientific focus is on finding ways to recognise and diagnose these changes as early as possible.

Alzheimer’s Research UK has devised a list of tips for a healthier brain, in order to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease:

-          Sticking to recommended limits when drinking alcohol

-          No smoking

-          Keeping high blood pressure under control

-          Maintaining a healthy weight

-          Ensuring cholesterol is kept at a healthy level

-          Having an active lifestyle and eating a balanced diet

Getting Support After a Diagnosis

After receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease, some people may experience feelings of low mood, worry, or embarrassment. A sense of shame and anger may also be felt.

Sometimes the disease is only detected in its later stages. As a result, this can affect how an individual responds upon hearing the news, due to the way that dementia can change someone’s brain, behaviour, and personality.

There are many ways that people can support themselves after a diagnosis. The Alzheimer’s Society has produced a helpful publication full of statistics, helplines, and treatments. The booklet is an excellent place to start if you want to find out more in-depth information.

With the right support, a person with dementia can reduce the likelihood of experiencing negative emotions that surface as the disease progresses. Maintaining social engagements and connections can reduce feelings of isolation. Talking about their feelings may discourage a person from bottling up their feelings, and inevitably feeling worse.

A sense of normality is also vital for those living with Alzheimer’s disease. Keeping up with activities and hobbies that they enjoyed previously can help to achieve this. An option of joining another social group or trying new things may also encourage fulfilment and keep the individual mentally stimulated.

Support For Friends and Family

When an individual is diagnosed with dementia, it can also have a significant emotional impact on their family and friends. Although many people experience feelings of relief, others may start to grieve for the life they were expecting to have with their family or friend.

Caring for a person with dementia can be incredibly difficult, especially as the disease progresses, but with the right tools and support, both individuals can cope better.

Deeper knowledge of the disease can help individuals understand what will happen in the future, helping with preparations in advance. This can be achieved through support groups. Sharing experiences with people who are going through the similar experiences may provide companionship during an incredibly isolating time.

Participating in activities and hobbies that the person has interest in can encourage independence and allow you to maintain a strong relationship free of distress and anger. Focusing on tasks that they are still able to do may also boost self-confidence.

Andway can provide personalised services that can aid with the challenges that those with Alzheimer’s disease experience. Memory boxes containing recognisable items can contribute towards feelings of reassurance, lessening feelings of fear and panic.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Andway can help. Get in touch here for support and assistance.

Everyone’s needs are different, especially when it involves caring for an individual’s health. Growing pressures on healthcare services in the UK are causing healthcare professionals to lose sight of the patient they are treating, placing too much focus on their condition or illness.

With the right tools, you can realign your practices, and support people in a way that caters to their specific needs.

What is Person-Centred Care?

Person-centred care involves healthcare workers focusing on certain needs of the individual they are caring for. Co-produced care between professionals and patients ensures their preferences are catered to and helps the individual to feel supported.

Recognising that everyone’s needs are different is essential to this approach. Considering the persons values, circumstances, and lifestyle puts them at the centre of all decisions, and consequently, ensures they feel acknowledged, a sense of equality, and that they are receiving the best care.

Establishing a caring relationship between a patient and carer shows that their relationship is just as important as the help that they receive. Flexibility in services, one-to-one discussions and overall partnership shows that their care is person-centred. It is about “doing things with people, rather than ‘to’ them.”

Why is Person-Centred Care So Important?

Ensuring individuals are at the centre of their treatment results in high quality healthcare, which is important for both the individual and the professional.

Sustaining compassion and dignity illustrates to the patients that healthcare providers see past their condition, and therefore stronger relationships can be built.

Upholding these standards of person-centred care can motivate people to stick to their treatment plans – improving their independence and healthcare journey.

One essential by-product of person-centred care is the opportunity it creates to alleviate the strain placed on healthcare providers in the UK. Patient awareness may work to decrease the unnecessary use of emergency services or unrequired occupancy of vital space in hospitals.

How Can Person-Centred Care Be Delivered?

As a result of how varied person-centred care can be, there are many different approaches in how it is delivered. Some of these include:

•          Emotional support
•          The involvement of family and friends
•          Respecting and understanding people’s values
•          Putting individuals at the centre of all care and decisions
•          Treating people with compassion and dignity
•          Continuous and consistent services
•          Providing communication and information
•          Personalised treatment

Ensuring You Have the Right Facilities

Understanding the ins and outs of person-centred care is the first step in ensuring you can deliver treatment effectively and efficiently. Next step? Making sure you have the correct equipment and facilities in place.

At Andway, we provide a range of products, services, and maintenance to help you keep healthcare in hand. Our reliable and responsive service can assist you in supplying personalised treatment plans, facilitating independence, and supporting each patients’ individual needs.

Still in need of advice? Please get in contact.