Barry Price interviews Gerry McMurdie about the impact of sensory impairments on dementia care and effective strategies for caregivers.
In a recent episode of The Care Social, Barry Price converses with Gerry McMurdie, a Dementia Specialist at Quality Compliance Systems (QCS), to delve into a critical yet often neglected aspect of dementia care: the effects of sensory loss. This discussion sheds light on how impairments in sight and hearing can complicate communication for individuals living with dementia, thereby potentially escalating the risk of falls and emotional withdrawal.
Drawing from their extensive field experiences, Price and McMurdie articulate practical strategies that caregivers can employ to mitigate these challenges. Simple adjustments, such as enhancing lighting conditions, minimising background noise, and ensuring that eyeglasses and hearing aids are maintained in a clean and functional state, can significantly enhance the quality of life for those affected by dementia.
Furthermore, they underscore the importance of the early detection of sensory changes through regular assessments. Incorporating straightforward technological solutions is recommended to help care teams effectively support individuals in remaining safe, connected, and confident as they navigate their daily lives.
McMurdie emphasises the vital role of recognising and responding to sensory loss in providing high-quality dementia care, reflecting on the idea that “sometimes it’s the simplest adjustments that make the biggest difference.” This highlights the often-overlooked need for comprehensive strategies that address the sensory challenges faced by people living with dementia.
For those interested in participating in future discussions or suggesting topics for upcoming episodes, the program invites listeners to reach out via email.
Source: Noah Wire Services
