Welcoming Wards and Person-Centred approaches to visiting.

As we prepare for the Christmas period, we know there are people living with dementia across Scotland who will be spending the festive period in hospital. This can be very difficult for the person themselves and for their families.

From speaking to people living with dementia, their families, and NHS Staff we know that one thing that makes a positive difference when in our hospitals is support from those who matter to them, from those that know them best, know their likes & dislikes and can provide reassurance & comfort, minimising stress & distress for everyone. Support from family members and loved ones when in hospital cannot be overstated, bringing comfort to both the person with dementia and their family.

Welcoming Wards and Person-Centred approaches to visiting are in place in our hospital settings across Scotland. Person-Centred visiting is less about having fixed visiting times and more about staff, friends, family members, and carers working together to support those in the hospital in the best way possible.

To find out more about the principles of Person-Centred visiting you can read more at https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-hospital-visiting-guidance/ 

To learn more about Person-Centred Visiting approaches within individual NHS Health Boards please visit the individual NHS Board homepage to read more. 

I wish you all blessings for the festive season and peace and hope for 2024,

Contributor

Lyn Pirie, Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Nurse Consultant and Welcome Ward; Person- Centred Visiting Lead, NHS Grampian.