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"A beacon of light in navigating dementia"

About: Older People’s Mental Health and Memory Service / Northern Sector

(as a carer),

In our journey with my father's dementia, the Dementia Navigator Memory Team and its dedicated advocate, Stephanie, emerged as a beacon of support. Stephanie's compassion and expertise played a crucial role in many ways. I’ll highlight three in this story which showcase the service’s commitment to families like ours.

The Friday information sessions hosted by Stephanie and the Dementia Navigator Memory Team provide unexpected treasures, offering valuable insights, and creating a supportive community. My parents thoroughly enjoy these sessions, finding comfort and camaraderie with others facing similar challenges, while also getting countless questions answered. No task is too demanding for the team, everything is met with a willingness to help.

As we embarked on the Blue Disability Badge application process, Stephanie's detailed and poignant letter addressing my father's struggles with dementia was invaluable. Her unwavering support and understanding transcended professional duty, making Dementia Navigator Service more than an organization; it became a lifeline during our most challenging moments.

Noteworthy during all of this is my mother's proactive approach to my father's care. Engaging in the Dementia Navigator education services, she has equipped herself with effective strategies to manage his symptoms. This commitment to learning and implementing best practices has significantly contributed to our family’s ability to cope.

While our experience with Dementia Navigator Service is overwhelmingly positive, it is crucial to acknowledge the hurdles for dementia families in applying for benefits like the Blue Badge and other application processes. Streamlined procedures and improved accessibility would benefit families facing similar circumstances.

In closing this story, my heartfelt gratitude goes to Stephanie for her exceptional support, professionalism, and genuine care of my parents. Her commitment to enhancing the lives of those affected by dementia is commendable, making her a true asset to the Western Trust.

As the journey with my family and dementia unfolds, the story keeps shifting. Yet, we celebrate every win, all thanks to Stephanie and the organization she represents.

Do you have a similar story to tell? Tell your story & make a difference ››

Responses

Response from Stephanie Coyle, Dementia Navigator , Memory Team, Western Health and Social Care Trust 17 months ago
Stephanie Coyle
Dementia Navigator , Memory Team,
Western Health and Social Care Trust
Submitted on 09/02/2024 at 16:59
Published on Care Opinion at 17:03


picture of Stephanie Coyle

Dear AidenF

Thank you so much for taking the time to provide feedback on the Dementia Navigator Service. Your story is beautifully written and we are so grateful to receive such kind words about the service.

The Dementia Navigator Service was put into place in 2015 under recommendations from The Northern Ireland Dementia Strategy “Improving Dementia Services in Northern Ireland” (2011). The Regional Dementia Care Pathway was set up to involve the views of people living with dementia and their carers. People living with dementia and their carers have been, and continue to be, central to the implementation of the regional strategy. Their views, opinions and experiences have influenced the direction of travel and helped to set priorities for action.

It was recognised that people with dementia and their families need information, care and support throughout the dementia journey, not just at the time of diagnosis.

I am delighted to be a part of this service working within the memory team. The staff work meticulously to ensure the process from the point of referral into the memory team right through to diagnosis is person centred. The Occupational Therapists, Nurses, Admin and Nursing Students who provide input into the monthly information sessions have been delighted to take part and I will be very pleased to share this feedback with them.

We understand the need and the importance of education for families. Educating and teaching carers skills and giving them the tools and strategies they need to manage at home is essential and vital for the carer and the person living with the dementia. Often these skills and knowledge can also be received from other carers who have been in similar situations. Carers need support, a chance not only to learn from one another, but also to have that safe space and freedom to discuss how they are feeling. When people with similar experiences are brought together in a safe space it creates the feeling of togetherness. I have had the pleasure of witnessing this first hand during the monthly information sessions. We are also very blessed in the Western Trust to have such inspirational community groups such as Deeds, Dementia NI and the Alzheimer’s Society who provide invaluable support to people living with dementia and their families.

As the Dementia Navigator I have the great pleasure of meeting people like your parents whose strength and determination continue to inspire me on a daily basis.

Many thanks again for your feedback

Stephanie Coyle

Dementia Navigator

WHSCT

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