Specialist dementia care services

At CrossReach we have always championed quality of life for people with dementia.

Over the years we’ve seen first-hand how valuable it is to have a can-do philosophy, even when the illness is affecting someone’s short-term memory, their ability to recognise previously familiar people and carry out everyday tasks.

It’s not enough to simply say we offer high quality care and support – which of course we do. Our aim is to enrich and enhance the lives of people with dementia, as well as their families. We do this through a range of innovative projects led by our deeply committed, creative and experienced staff. 

Here are some of the ways we are making a difference to those with dementia as well as those who care for them.

Dementia Ambassadors
CrossReach was the first social care provider in Scotland to appoint a Dementia Ambassador in every one of our care homes and services for older people. Dementia Ambassadors have enhanced skills and knowledge in dementia care. Their role is to promote best practice, support colleagues and provide a point of contact for families and carers of people living with dementia.

Dementia clinics
We host dementia clinics in all our dementia care homes and services. They are run by our specialist dementia team, who are on hand to offer advice to staff, answer questions and provide training for families on caring for a loved one with dementia.

Oomph! exercise classes
We partner with a social enterprise called Oomph! (Our Organisation Makes People Happy) to provide exercises classes to music for residents with dementia. This kind of activity improves mobility, communication, mental wellbeing and confidence. It’s another way we’re combatting perceptions about dementia – by showing that life can be full of joy and laughter.

Playlist for Life
In some of our care homes we offer Playlist for Life. This is an activity that uses music from a person’s life to keep them connected to themselves and their loved ones. Music has a unique and astonishing ability to bring back feelings and memories. It can manage mood and emotions, strengthen relationships and reconnect families.

Find out more at playlistforlife.org.uk

Namaste Care
This is a programme designed to improve quality of life and bring pleasure to people with advanced dementia. It focuses on sensory stimulation, from the gentle touch of a hand massage or being surrounded by bubbles, to using aromas that stimulate memories or aid relaxation.

Namaste Care is currently offered at Adams House in Renfrewshire

"Despite

the diagnosis of dementia, the person remains a unique individual. Although memories, both short and long term, may be affected, we can help the person reconnect by finding individual strategies. With the right commitment, love and support we can reach people even in the very late stages of their dementia journey and enable them to attain the highest quality of life that they are able to achieve."

- - Pamela Mackay and Linda Kelly, Dementia Development Team