Dementia
Navigating the complexities of Dementia can be a tender journey, especially for those with a loved one diagnosed with this condition.
Dementia is a multi-faceted journey, characterised by various phases and Catherine House Care Home understands the importance of adapting our care to align with the unique needs of individuals as they traverse through these different phases of their Dementia journey.
Our conviction lies in the belief that to provide meaningful care, it is vital for every team member, beyond the caregiving staff, to truly know and understand the individual they are caring for. We understand the significance of delving into the diverse narrative of each person’s life history, gaining insights that allow us to tailor our support to their specific needs. This holistic approach ensures that the care provided at Catherine House Care Home is not just about managing symptoms but about fostering an environment where every resident, who we refer to as family member, is seen, understood, and valued at every stage of their unique Dementia journey.
We use the family member’s life story to build a picture of their past occupation, lifestyle, history, family, likes and dislikes and our team are trained in completing detailed care plans with the help of relatives.
We understand the demands memory loss places both on people living with a Dementia and on their families and this is where our Household Model of Care comes in, with the essence of Professor Thomas Kitwood’s profound philosophy.
Catherine House Care Home endeavours to transcend conventional care, aspiring to establish a nurturing haven deeply grounded in understanding, compassion, and the principles of bespoke Evolve Care Academy training. Our commitment extends beyond mere caregiving, focusing on fostering an environment where each family member’s unique Dementia journey becomes a continuation of life—a space where their individuality is not only preserved but celebrated, affirming that the presence of Dementia should not impede the ongoing journey of living.
Residential
Catherine House Care Home is made up of three separate households, each designed to support different types of care needs. Within one of these households we provide residential care and support in a warm, welcoming environment designed for older adults who would benefit from extra help with day-to-day living.
Residential care is ideal for those who are finding it difficult to live alone, whether due to increasing frailty, mobility changes or simply because they’re feeling lonely or isolated. Some do join us after a hospital stay, others after the loss of a partner and many are simply looking for the comfort, social connection and peace of mind that comes from living in a caring community with help always nearby.
Residential care means you or your loved one can enjoy life with as much independence as possible, while our team is always there to support with personal care such as bathing, dressing, medication or meals.
Whether staying long-term or joining us for a short respite stay, residents enjoy a sense of belonging, purpose and genuine companionship.
Meaningful Activities
Activities at Catherine House Care Home come in many different forms — not just scheduled events, but moments woven into everyday life. Residents might take part in a group outing, welcome a visiting entertainer into the home, or join a community event in Frome town centre. Equally important are the familiar, fulfilling routines that bring purpose to the day – arranging flowers for the household, helping in the garden, or chatting over a shared cup of tea. We believe in promoting choice and independence through all the small things that make a house feel like home.
Respite
Respite care is a temporary stay in a care home. Respite care can help you to get back on your feet after you’ve had a spell in hospital or you’re recovering from an illness. It’s also a good option when the carer goes on holiday or needs a short break from caring.
Sometimes taking a break from the usual routine can make a huge difference, both for carers at home and for those who are being cared for.
For carers, it’s important to know that your loved one is in a safe, comfortable, homely environment so that you can truly enjoy the break you so much deserve.
Step-Down Care / Short-Term Stay
Step-down care is a term used by the NHS when someone is ready to leave hospital but needs a little more time, care and reassurance before returning home or deciding what comes next. Although this term may sound clinical, it simply describes a short-term stay where support continues while the person recovers and regains confidence.
Being told that a loved one can leave hospital should bring relief, but it can also bring worry. Although hospital treatment may no longer be needed, the person you care about could still be weaker than before after spending more time in bed, moving less and being unable to continue with their usual activities. They may also feel less confident on their feet or need more support with eating, drinking, medication and everyday life.
Catherine House Care Home provides step-down care, giving people time to recover in a consistent and supportive environment where their physical and emotional wellbeing are equally important. Nursing support is available day and night, alongside help with mobility, nutrition, personal care and rebuilding everyday routines.
Step-down care is short term, although the length of the stay will vary depending on the person’s needs and the arrangements agreed as part of their hospital discharge. Where a stay is arranged through a hospital discharge pathway, funding may be provided by the NHS or local authority and should be confirmed before admission. A stay can also be arranged and paid for privately. Some people return home following their short-term stay, while others decide they would like to make Catherine House their permanent home.
For more information on short-term / step-down care please click here.