DREAM program shows positive results through timely care for dementia patients
Date issued: Thursday, April 11, 2024
(Cassandra Shepherd, Dementia Resource Consultant; Alzheimer Society of Brant, Haldimand, Norfolk, Hamilton, Halton)
(Simcoe) – Picture yourself walking into a busy emergency department, surrounded by the hustle and bustle that comes with urgent care. It’s a place where stress and worry are common feelings. But then, you’re met with a wave of understanding, support, and personalized care that alleviates your anxiety. This isn’t just a wishful thought; it’s a reality for those facing dementia and their families at Norfolk General Hospital (NGH), all thanks to the DREAM program.
In January 2023, NGH teamed up with the Alzheimer Society of Brant, Haldimand, Norfolk, Hamilton, and Halton to launch the DREAM Team, which stands for Dementia, Resource, Education, Advocacy, Mentorship.
The DREAM Team is built on the foundation of two critical roles: A Home & Community Care Coordinator and a Dementia Resource Consultant. These professionals bridge the gap between emergency care and continuous support, ensuring that patients and their families are guided towards the assistance they require, at the time they need it most.
They work closely with the emergency department team to quickly figure out which patients might be struggling with dementia and guide them to better support options. Plus, they make sure these patients stay tapped into local programs, getting the specialized help they need without having to leave their community or even their home.
Take Andrea and her 85-year-old dad from Norfolk County, for example. On a particularly tough day in early 2024, they found themselves in the emergency department. Amid the confusion and distress, they met Kerry Bracewell, a dedicated Dementia Resource Consultant with the DREAM team. Kerry’s simple yet effective solution was to give Andrea’s dad an MP3 player loaded with music. This small act of kindness brought him peace and gave Andrea a moment to breathe during a stressful time.
This story perfectly captures what the DREAM Team is all about: being there with support and guidance during hard times. The program’s success shines through in its 57% diversion rate, meaning that more than half of the dementia-affected patients have been directed away from unnecessary hospital stays to more suitable community support. Moreover, the acceptance of services by approximately 68% of our ED visitors from the Alzheimer Society speaks volumes about the vital support this initiative provides.
“We’re so grateful for our partnership with Norfolk General Hospital and the incredible progress the DREAM Team is making in dementia care,” shares Janine Reimer, Manager, Clinical Programs and Services at the Alzheimer Society. “It’s inspiring to see their hard work provide immediate help to those with dementia and their families. Ensuring that crucial support is available right where it’s needed is at the heart of this effort. This kind of collaboration is what can bring positive impact to those living with dementia and their care partners.”
With more than 2,400 individuals in Norfolk County alone facing the challenges of dementia, the need for early and appropriate support is undeniable. Adam Isaacs, Director of Emergency Department and Intensive Care, highlights the mission’s importance:
” Visiting the emergency department can be daunting for those with dementia and their caregivers. The DREAM Team is here to alleviate this stress by connecting them to community resources, reducing future hospital visits. We’re thankful for their impactful work, making every visit more comforting and effective for families in need.”
NGH and Brantford General Hospital (BGH) are key participants in a pilot initiative by the Brantford Brant Norfolk Ontario Health Team, marking a significant advance in dementia care. This partnership underscores our dedication to improving the lives of those impacted.
The Alzheimer Society provides essential programs and services in Haldimand-Norfolk. For anyone in need of support or resources for dementia care, local help is just a click away. Discover the support available to empower individuals and families on their journey.
