A Fife husband has taken caring for his dementia sufferer wife to a new level.
Jack Gardener, whose wife Jean is a resident at Balhousie Forth View in Methil, has become the first family member of a resident in one of the organisation’s care homes to reach dementia skilled level in a programme aimed at promoting excellence in dementia care.
Jack visits Forth View to see Jean, whose dementia is at a more advanced stage, on a daily basis and had showed an interest in the training staff were receiving on dementia care, so the home manager Gordon Candlish offered him the training.
Jack completed all five modules to reach skilled level.
The Promoting Excellence in dementia care framework was developed by NHS Education for Scotland and the Scottish Social Services Council.
“I enjoyed learning more about dementia by completing the modules with the help of the staff at Forth View.
“Each module is different and some were more relevant to me than others.”
Jack added: “I would say to other people to do it, if for no other reason than to improve your own knowledge and be able to support your loved one.”
Last year, Balhousie Care Group introduced its dementia strategy, which has six themes designed to inform, support and influence the very best in dementia care.
One of those themes focuses on education and each of the 24 care homes are working towards ensuring all staff have completed the Promoting Excellence programme.
Its dementia consultant Yvonne Manson, said when it launched the strategy and dementia ambassador programme last year, it was always with a view of not just supporting staff to increase their knowledge but also families of residents too.
“I am overjoyed that we have now had our first family member complete skilled level in promoting excellence in dementia care.
“I admire Jack for taking the time to complete the modules and look at ways he can support his wife by increasing his own knowledge. ”
Mr Candlish said Jack showed great aptitude, adding: “He has told me he got a great deal of benefit from completing the promoting excellence course and now has an increased understanding on all aspects of dementia care which will support his visits to the home.”