b'PERSON-CENTRED CAREabnormal is to put people in a placeempowered and supported to addresskeeps residents with dementia where they cant walk freely, whereeach residents needs individually. engaged and comfortable within we then blame them for wanting their environments, its incumbent to leave. This is a significant shift becauseon homes to re-think how they are it means moving away from anpromoting their residents physical and Holistic securityinstitutional medical model to one There are several ways to securewhere were looking at the individualemotional security. an area for the benefit of peopleas a whole in terms of their needs andIt really is a paradigm change, says with dementia that dont requirecapabilities, and then creating spaces a lock and key. These involvethat enhance their capability insteadDr. Power. Its about understanding building stronger visual cues intoof focus on their deficits, says Luth.why a resident is not living well and the physical environment that canadjusting our world around their help residents find where theyreIndeed, as the long-term careneeds, instead of expecting them to fit going and feel more comfortable insector learns more about whatinto our system of care. LTCTtheir environment. These could be as simple as painting hallways and doors different colours, clear signage, architectural landmarks, or distinct pieces of artwork or dcor that help distinguish one area or room fromthe next. At the same time, creating a secure environment is also about helping residents feel engaged and safe within their environments. That means ensuring they recognize the staff who are helping them change or bathe, giving them choice and control throughout their day, and providing programming that interests and engages their individual passionsand needs. Certainly, securing an area is less about preventing residents from leaving as it is about giving them reasons to stay. Thats not to say there arent physical measures to care for those residents with more persistent exit-seeking safety concerns, says Luth, but this is where unobtrusive alarm bracelets and door sensors can be used to keep track of residents without restricting their movement. The whole idea is to do things that contribute to peoples sense of security and autonomy, says Luth. When you help people navigate their space independently and make their own choices, thats when you begin enhancing their sense of comfort within their space and managing those exit-seeking tendencies.Changing the cultureThe topic of providing true security for residents with dementia is complex and ongoing. Its also one that requires a top-down culture change in which long-term care staff are www.oltca.com LONG TERM CARE TODAY 21'