Webinar: Lewy Body Dementia

/in , /by

31st July 2024, 2.30 – 3.30pm, Via Microsoft Teams

On 31 July, NHS Scotland’s Dementia Consultant Learning and Sharing Network will focus on Lewy Body Dementia, offering a vital session for dementia care professionals. From 2:30 to 3:30pm via Microsoft Teams, this online event invites Dementia Champions, Ambassadors, Specialist Improvement Leads, and anyone interested in dementia to deepen their understanding of this complex condition.

Register for the webinar here

The session features Rachel Thompson, Consultant Admiral Nurse for Lewy Body Dementia at Dementia UK. Rachel will present on the symptoms and management strategies for Lewy Body Dementia, providing practical insights and knowledge. Lewy Body Dementia, characterised by abnormal protein deposits in the brain, affects thinking, movement, behaviour, and mood, making education about it crucial.

This webinar is part of the NHS Scotland Dementia Consultant Group’s initiative to create a National Learning and Sharing Network. Register now to join this informative session and enhance your ability to support those affected by Lewy Body Dementia.

Supervision and Team Meeting

/in , /by

At Social Care Alba, we believe in fostering a supportive and cohesive work environment, where our dedication to our service users is at the heart of everything we do. Recently, our team came together for an insightful and engaging event focused on addressing some critical aspects of our work. We tackled various issues and concerns related to our day-to-day operations, specifically regarding the needs of our service users during their daily routines.

This event was a fantastic opportunity to delve into our approaches to care, highlighting the importance of understanding and catering to the specific needs of each service user. We also reviewed our protocols for handling incidents, ensuring that our responses are swift, effective, and compassionate. Moreover, this gathering emphasised the value of teamwork, as we collaborated to refine our strategies and support one another.

Supervision1
Supervision2
Supervision4

Upcoming Local Dementia-Friendly Activities June 2024 

/in , /by

Discover a vibrant array of dementia-friendly activities awaiting you this June in our local community. From engaging workshops to enriching social gatherings, we’ve collected opportunities designed to foster connection, support, and joy for individuals living with dementia and their loved ones.

DateTimeEventLocationPhone
June 3rd1.30pm – 3pmBig HeartsTynecastle Stadium07443 269947
4pmForget Me Notes ChoirOnline07588894587
2pm – 4pmGentle Exercise ClassCluny Hall07834 364628
June 4th1.30pm – 3pmBig HeartsTynecastle Stadium07443 269947
11am – 1pmHeart for ArtMorningside Parish Church07834 364628
1.30pm – 2.30pmEric’s Encore Music GroupEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
10.30am – 12.30pmCanalside GroupFountainbridge07706 580147
June 5th4.30pm – 5.30pmChair YogaOnline0131 315 2151
1:45pm – 2:45pmChoir in the ParkSaughton Park07588 894587
12pm – 2pmLiddell Lunch LionsEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
June 6th10amCanal Walking GroupFountainbridge07706 580147
4pm – 5pmForget Me Notes ChoirGorgie07588 894587
By AppointmentBookroom BarberEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
June 7th11am – 12 noonLiddell LyricsEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
2pm – 3pmTogether in SongFestival Theatre0131 529 6000
June 10th1.30pm – 3pmBig HeartsTynecastle Stadium07443 269947
4pmForget Me Notes ChoirOnline07588 894587
2pm – 3pmSongwriting SprintFestival Theatre0131 529 6000
2pm – 4pmMusic & MemoriesCluny Hall07834 364628
June 11th1.30pm – 3pmBig HeartsTynecastle Stadium07443 269947
11am – 1pmHeart for ArtMorningside Parish Church07834 364628
10.30am – 12.30pmCanalside GroupFountainbridge07706 580147
1:30pm – 2:30pmHappy HarmoniesEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
June 12th4:30pm – 5:30pmChair YogaOnline0131 315 2151
12pm – 2pmLiddell Lunch LionsEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
June 13th10amCanal Walking GroupFountainbridge07706 580147
June 14th10:30amCameo Cinema02072 947908
11am – 12 noonLiddell LyricsEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
June 17th1.30pm – 3pmBig HeartsTynecastle Stadium07443 269947
4pmForget Me Notes ChoirOnline07588 894587
2pm – 4pmGentle Exercise ClassCluny Hall07834 364628
June 18th1.30pm – 3pmBig HeartsTynecastle Stadium07443 269947
11am – 1pmHeart for ArtMorningside Parish Church07834 364628
1.30pm – 2.30pmEric’s Encore Music GroupEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
10.30am – 12.30pmCanalside GroupFountainbridge07706 580147
June 19th2pm – 3.30pmSunflower CaféPalmerston Place Church0131 220 1690
4.30pm – 5.30pmChair YogaOnline0131 315 2151
12pm – 2pmLiddell Lunch LionsEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
1:45pm – 2:45pmChoir in the ParkSaughton Park07588 894587
11am – 12:30pmComfy CeilidhFestival Theatre0131 529 6000
June 20th10amCanal Walking GroupFountainbridge07706 580147
4pm – 5pmForget Me Notes ChoirGorgie07588 894587
June 21st11am – 12 noonLiddell LyricsEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
June 24th1.30pm – 3pmBig HeartsTynecastle Stadium07443 269947
4pmForget Me Notes ChoirOnline07588 894587
11am – 12.30pmTea and “Jam”Festival Theatre0131 529 6000
June 25th1.30pm – 3pmBig HeartsTynecastle Stadium07443 269947
11am – 1pmHeart for ArtMorningside Parish Church07834 364628
10.30am – 12.30pmCanalside GroupFountainbridge07706 580147
1:30pm – 2:30pmHappy HarmoniesEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
June 26th4.30pm – 5.30pmChair YogaOnline0131 315 2151
12pm – 2pmLiddell Lunch LionsEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
June 27th10amCanal Walking GroupFountainbridge07706 580147
June 28th11am – 12 noonLiddell LyricsEric Liddell Centre0131 357 1277
10:30am – 12pmGallery Social – VermeerNational Gallery0131 624 6410
2pm – 4pmMusic & MemoriesCluny Hall07834 364628

Medication Training

/in , /by

Ensuring the highest standard of care for our service users is at the heart of everything we do at Social Care Alba. As part of our commitment to excellence, we recently held a Medication training session led by our knowledgeable trainer, Jeanny.

Proper medication management is essential in social care, as it ensures the well-being of our clients by promoting safe and accurate administration of their medications.

This training aimed to enhance our team’s understanding and skills in handling medications responsibly. Below are some key moments from the session.

Moving & Handling Training

/in , /by

At Social Care Alba, the ongoing professional development of our carers and staff is a priority. Recently, we conducted a Moving & Handling training session led by our skilled trainer, Godson.

Proper moving and handling techniques are crucial in social care, as they help prevent injuries, ensure the comfort of clients, and promote a safer working environment for carers.

This training aimed to enhance our team’s skills in safely assisting clients with mobility needs. Below are some photos capturing the practical aspects of the session.

Continence Training

/in , /by

Continence care training is one of our mandatory training for all new starters before they work in the community. Caroline leads this training, which covers the various types of continence care products commonly used by our service users.

Announcing Two New AHP Open Badges (Podiatry)

/in , /by

We’re excited to share the release of two new AHP Open Badges, a result of collaboration between the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC), NHS Tayside’s Allied Health Professions (AHP) Clinical Educators, NHS Fife Podiatry, and NHS Tayside Podiatry.

These digital learning certificates have been developed to support professionals across various care sectors in their skill enhancement, knowledge maintenance, and re-validation of learning. Notably, they’re accessible not only to registered professionals but also to individuals interested in self-management, friends, family, unpaid carers, and volunteers, serving as a valuable resource for preventative and early intervention support.

Focused on supported personal foot care and raising awareness of foot health-related issues, these badges contribute to elevating awareness of AHP services while delivering crucial support messages aimed at enhancing the quality of care provided.

Personal Care for Feet

Intended for people in a variety of care settings and focuses on supportive foot care and monitoring to allow the provision of personal footcare needs for those not able to undertake this task for themselves.

CPR for Feet

Intended for people in a variety of care settings and focuses on supportive foot care and monitoring for people who have a medical and / or foot condition which puts their feet at high risk of ulceration.

What is Podiatry?

Podiatry is the management of problems of the foot and lower limb.  It is a medical service offering care to those who have specific podiatry problems and/or medical conditions that can cause problems with the lower limb.  All NHS podiatrists are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Additional Useful Resources

SSSC learning challenge: May 2024

Remember, alongside these new badges, there’s also an ongoing SSSC learning challenge for May. Stay tuned for updates as further badge developments, including discussions for Physiotherapy badges in 2024, are explored. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance skills and contribute positively to the field of care!

Everyday Aids for People with Dementia

/in , /by

Living with dementia can present unique challenges for individuals and their caregivers alike. However, with the advancement of technology and the thoughtful design of everyday aids, managing daily tasks and maintaining independence is becoming more achievable.

From memory aids to safety devices, there is a wide array of tools available to support those living with dementia in their day-to-day lives. Today we’ll explore a selection of these everyday aids that can make a significant difference in enhancing quality of life for individuals with dementia.

Philips Hue Motion Sensor – £38 (Amazon)  

Detects movement and automatically switches on lights- Can help avoid trips and falls by making sure the lights come on at the right time.

Canary Care (Safely Sensor System) – Starts at £80 (canarycare.co.uk) 

A set of sensors fitted round the house that will alert others if something appears different, or hazardous to usual routine. 

Philips Hue smart bulb – £34 white or £60 colour changing bulb (Amazon) 

(Lights can be controlled remotely, or by using a voice assistant like Amazon Echo or Google Home) 

Smart Plug – £25 (Argos) 

Allows the user to switch plugged in devices on and off via Alexa or mobile phone app. 

Amazon Echo Dot £29.99 without clock £39.99 with clock (Amazon) 

Use voice to interact with it, asking questions, setting timers and reminders, and controlling connected household devices. 

Amazon Echo Show from £49.99 to £250 depending on model (Amazon) 

A voice-controlled assistant with a screen, that lets you find information, stay connected with people, set reminders and timers, listen to music and control smart home devices. 

Geemarc TV15 Remote Control – cost £12.99 

A universal TV remote control, but simple to use with large buttons and less of them. 

60s Micro Handset – £25 Approx (Amazon) 

Traditional telephone handset that plugs into mobile phone. 

Bone Conduction Headphones – £38 (Argos) 

Listen to music while protecting your hearing and maintaining the ability to hear other sounds. 

Companion Pet Tabby Cat – £118 (alzproducts.co.uk) 

A surprisingly realistic simulated cat that looks, feels and even responds like the real thing.

Ownfone £75 (Ownfone.com) 

It is a very simple and customisable mobile phone – It allows you to make and receive calls at home, and when you are out and about. It can be customised with the names or photos of people you want to call. 

Simplified Mobile Phone – £135 (Amazon) 

A basic and simple to use mobile phone – allowing the user to stay connected via phone or text with essential contacts.  Also has a built in GPS Alarm. 

Doro 8050 Simplified Smartphone – £177 (Amazon) 

A more basic and easier to use smartphone.  Hearing aid compatible and with Google Assistant and GPS Alarm. 

Fall Detector (and GPS Location Device) – From £99 (buddi.co.uk) 

Allows others to be aware of wearers location and alerts of any falls. 

LED Sensor Night Light – £15 (Argos) 

A night light that automatically comes on when motion is detected. 

Motion Activated Sound Player – £39 (alzproducts.co.uk) 

Plays a pre-recorded message when someone gets close enough – i.e. “Remember to lock the door.” 

Nest Thermostat – £130 (Currys) 

Allows user(s) to adjust home temperature by voice activation or mobile phone App. 

Simple Music Player and Radio – £150 (alzproducts.co.uk) 

Choose from 3 pre-selected favourite radio channels or your own playlist. 

Useful websites and digital resources

/in , /by

From managing symptoms to maintaining a sense of normalcy, finding resources and tools to navigate life for service users and their loved ones is invaluable. Fortunately, the digital age offers a plethora of solutions, from therapeutic music playlists to assistive gadgets. In this curated list, we’ll explore a variety of websites and apps designed to support individuals and their caregivers. Whether you seek calming melodies or practical aids, these resources aim to enhance quality of life and foster a sense of connection and empowerment.

You might also wish to take a look at these Everyday Aids for People with Dementia.

Playlistforlife.org.uk

Sometimes, the overwhelming weight of anxiety and agitation can overshadow daily life. Playlist for Life offers a remedy in the form of personalised music playlists. By compiling your favourite or most meaningful songs, you can tap into the therapeutic power of music, elevating your mood without the need for medication. Best of all, this service is free, making it accessible to all.

See also: How to make a playlist for life

Lothiansound.org.uk

Stay connected to your local community with Lothian Sound‘s weekly audio recordings of news and events. For individuals living with dementia, maintaining a sense of belonging and awareness of what’s happening in their surroundings can be crucial. These recordings provide a convenient way to stay informed and engaged.

Mindmate-app.com

Keeping both mind and body active is essential for overall well-being, especially for those affected by dementia. MindMate offers a daily dose of recommended activities designed to stimulate cognition and promote physical health. With a user-friendly interface, this app makes it easy to incorporate these activities into daily routines.

Myhomehelper.co.uk

Simplify daily tasks with My Home Helper, a user-friendly computer or tablet interface that can be controlled remotely. Whether it’s setting reminders, managing schedules, or staying connected with loved ones, this tool is designed to enhance independence and autonomy for individuals living with dementia.

Livingmadeeasy.org.uk

Explore a vast array of gadgets and aids to assist with almost any daily activity on Living Made Easy. From kitchen utensils to mobility aids, this comprehensive resource aims to make daily life more manageable for individuals with dementia and their caregivers.

Alzproducts.co.uk

For specialised dementia aids and products, AlzProducts is a trusted supplier. From sensory stimulation tools to safety equipment, their range of products is tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals living with dementia, providing practical solutions for everyday challenges.

Vrc.alzscot.org

Join online group meetings, activities, and information sessions from the comfort of your own home with Alzheimer Scotland’s Virtual Resource Centre. This virtual community offers opportunities for social interaction and support, fostering connections and reducing feelings of isolation.

Alzscot.orcha.co.uk

Access a curated digital health library on Alzscot’s ORCHA platform, where only professionally approved health apps are recommended and available. From memory aids to relaxation techniques, these apps offer additional support and resources for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.

Dementia Training April 2024

/in , /by

Caroline from Social Care Alba recently led an insightful dementia training session for our dedicated caregivers. Now equipped with essential skills and knowledge, they are better prepared to provide personalised and compassionate care to individuals living with dementia.

Understanding symptoms and effective communication techniques are key to enhancing the well-being of those in our care. With Caroline’s guidance, we’re ensuring a higher standard of support and improving the quality of life for our dementia patients.

Dementia training at Social Care Alba
Dementia Training session
Dementia Training with Caroline

Related links: