Elanor Gibson, Nicola Ramsden, Rachel Tomlinson and Charlie Jones
The purpose of this paper is to understand whether a woodland-based intervention might offer something helpful and engaging for people affected by dementia. In total, 18 people…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to understand whether a woodland-based intervention might offer something helpful and engaging for people affected by dementia. In total, 18 people came to Woodland Wellbeing groups over summer and autumn in 2016.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors made observations during the groups, kept some notes and conducted some interviews around three months after people had participated in Woodland Wellbeing.
Findings
Feedback from participants indicated themes around connection with nature and to one another; the joy in new learning and activities; and the inspirational impact of feeling part of nature.
Originality/value
This paper adds to the growing literature on natural approaches in supporting the wellbeing of people affected by dementia, and highlights the value of partnership working.
Details
Keywords
Deborah J. Morris, Elanor L. Webb, Inga Stewart, Jordan Galsworthy and Paul Wallang
A co-produced clinical practice that aims to improve outcomes through a partnership with service users is becoming increasingly important in intellectual disability (ID) services…
Abstract
Purpose
A co-produced clinical practice that aims to improve outcomes through a partnership with service users is becoming increasingly important in intellectual disability (ID) services, yet these approaches are under-evaluated in forensic settings. This study aims to explore and compare the feasibility of two approaches to co-production in the completion of dynamic risk assessments and management plans in a secure setting.
Design/methodology/approach
A convenience sample of adults admitted to a secure specialist forensic ID service (N = 54) completed the short dynamic risk scale (SDRS) and drafted risk management plans under one of two conditions. In the first condition, participants rated the SDRS and risk management plan first, separately from the multidisciplinary team (MDT). In the second condition, participants and MDTs rated the SDRS and risk management plan together.
Findings
In total, 35 (65%) participants rated their risk assessments and 25 (47%) completed their risk management plans. Participants who rated their risk assessments separately from the MDT were significantly more likely to complete the SDRS (p = 0.025) and draft their risk management plans (p = 0.003). When rated separately, MDT scorers recorded significantly higher total SDRS scores compared to participants (p = 0.009). A series of Mann-Whitney U tests revealed significant differences between MDT and participant ratings on questions that required greater skills in abstraction and social reasoning, as well as sexual behaviour and self-harm.
Originality/value
Detained participants with an ID will engage in their dynamic risk assessment and management plan processes. The study demonstrates the impact of different co-production methodologies on engagement and highlights areas for future research pertaining to co-production.
Details
Keywords
Alessandra Girardi, Elanor Webb, Inga Stewart, Simon Stokes and Kieran Breen
The development and clinical application of digital devices to support individuals with dementia can be challenging due to difficulties meeting the needs of a patient population…
Abstract
Purpose
The development and clinical application of digital devices to support individuals with dementia can be challenging due to difficulties meeting the needs of a patient population with largely heterogeneous and progressive symptoms. Memjo Ltd has developed a digital interactive prototype tablet to promote cognitive stimulation and reminiscence. This proof-of-concept case-study aims to understand whether the engagement of individuals with dementia and Huntington's disease (HD) at an early stage is a useful approach to inform the initial development of meaningful digital activities and ultimately its potential introduction into clinical practice.
Design/methodology/approach
Five patients with dementia and HD at different stages of progression were recruited from an inpatient secure psychiatric hospital. Engagement, usability and preliminary benefits were assessed using a mixed-methods approach through observations, open-ended questions and subjective ratings.
Findings
The content of the tool triggered reminiscence, discussion and positive behavioural and emotional responses. The participants were confident using the tablet but needed support interacting with the touchscreen and, at times, to encourage communication. “Music” and “Videos”, were particularly successful in engaging most participants despite their cognitive and physical difficulties.
Originality/value
This case-study shows that co-production in clinical practice can be successfully implemented to develop activities that meet the interests and needs of patients with dementia and Huntington's disease. The varied and flexible assessment provided rich feedback that will be used to improve the device. This highlights avenues of focus for the development of future pools of activities.