#lapiscare

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2024 The Year for You

As the new year begins, we often thinking about making changes, self-improvement and making time for the things we enjoy.

Being prepared for your future is one of the greatest ‘self-care’ goals you can make.

Lapis Care can provide the information and tools needed to ‘future-proof’ yourself. Prioritising your needs and extra care required, if needed, is something we should all be doing. This way you can feel at ease that big decisions are taken care of and yourself or loved ones do not need to worry.

There are a lot of things to consider when deciding on care, here we have listed a few of the main things to get you started.

Identify your wishes and preferences

Your care is exactly that YOURS, ensure to document your wishes and appoint someone to make decisions for you (if needed) using a Lasting Power of Attorney 

The costs

Can you afford private care? Are you entitled to public funding?

Would like to stay at home?

Would you be willing to make adaptations to your home? How is your mobility? How many visits per day would you require?

Do your research

Choosing a care company can be confusing with many different options. The Care Quality Commission is a great place to start. Read their CQC reports, look for good or outstanding ratings, this will be clearly displayed on their report, website or literature.

Reputable Care companies can also be found on the Local Authority’s Trading standards approved ‘Buy with Confidence’ scheme. Companies, such as Lapis Care, have to go through a vigorous vetting process to acquire this so that customers benefit from greater confidence in the service they are receiving.

Homecare.co.uk is also another great place to research care, it provides a detailed profile of the company and what they can provide, as well as customer reviews.

Get talking

The best way to start thinking about these plans is to talk about it. Talk to your family, friends, your support network. You can also call care companies about any of your queries, and they will be happy to discuss with you. The more you know about what you want and what would work best for you, the easier your decisions will be.

Lapis Care believe forward planning is a great way to dissolve the future worries, being open and honest about what you want really does make all the difference. Having the knowledge of what you want and what you can have will always give you the best start if and when you need it. 

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Unraveling Dementia: Understanding Types, Symptoms, and Progression

Dementia is a complex and often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people worldwide. By deepening our understanding of dementia, its various types, symptoms, and progression, we can better support those living with the condition and their families. In this article, we will delve into the world of dementia, shedding light on its different forms and offering insights into the symptoms and progression of this challenging condition.

Dementia is not a single disease but rather an umbrella term used to describe a range of conditions that affect cognitive abilities severely. It is characterised by a decline in memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for approximately 60-80% of cases.

While Alzheimer’s disease dominates the dementia landscape, several other types exist. These include Vascular Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia, and Mixed Dementia. Each type has unique characteristics and affects different areas of the brain, leading to distinct symptoms and progression patterns.

Dementia manifests in a variety of symptoms that progressively worsen over time. Common early signs include memory loss, difficulty finding words, impaired judgment, and changes in mood or behaviour. As the condition advances, individuals may experience confusion, disorientation, challenges with language, and difficulty performing daily tasks.

Dementia is a progressive condition, meaning it worsens over time. The rate and pattern of progression can vary depending on the type of dementia and individual factors. Typically, dementia follows a continuum from mild cognitive impairment to moderate and severe stages, where individuals require extensive assistance with daily activities.

Obtaining an accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and support. Medical professionals utilise a combination of assessments, medical history, cognitive tests, and imaging techniques to diagnose dementia. Early diagnosis allows for timely interventions and access to support services.

Certain risk factors, such as age, genetics, and family history, increase the likelihood of developing dementia. While these factors cannot be changed, adopting a healthy lifestyle, engaging in mentally stimulating activities, managing cardiovascular health, and maintaining social connections may help reduce the risk or delay the onset of dementia.

While there is currently no cure for most forms of dementia, various interventions can enhance quality of life and manage symptoms. Treatment may involve a combination of medication, cognitive and Behavioural therapies, lifestyle modifications, and support services tailored to individual needs.

Providing compassionate and person-centred care is vital for individuals living with dementia. Creating a safe and structured environment, establishing routines, promoting cognitive stimulation, fostering social connections, and offering emotional support can greatly improve well-being and quality of life.

Understanding the different types, symptoms, and progression of dementia empowers us to provide better support and care for those affected. By spreading awareness and knowledge, we can create a more dementia-inclusive society and work towards improving the lives of individuals with dementia and their families. Remember, empathy and education are the cornerstones of dementia care, allowing us to foster understanding, compassion, and dignity for all.

Lapis Care specialise in Dementia care, with extensive training and understanding of people with Alzheimer’s, we provide person centered care, tailored to each individuals needs. For more information about us at Lapis please visit: www.lapiscare.com

A useful link for more information:

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Enhancing Independence for People with Dementia or Brain Injuries

It is estimated that at least 850,000 people in the UK are living with Dementia and with our ever-growing population now living longer this is a matter that will continue to grow. Assistive technologies have the potential to significantly enhance the independence and quality of life for individuals with dementia or brain injuries. Around two thirds of doctors say they would like to be able to prescribe assistive technologies to their patients.

These innovative tools and devices can compensate for cognitive and physical impairments, facilitate daily activities, and promote safety. In this article, we will explore various assistive technologies that can empower individuals with dementia or brain injuries, allowing them to maintain independence and improve their overall well-being.

Here are 10 examples of assistive technologies and how they work:

Reminder Systems: Electronic reminder systems, such as medication reminders, appointment notifications, and task prompts, can help individuals with cognitive impairments stay organised and manage their daily routines effectively. These systems can be in the form of alarms, smart phone apps, or voice-activated devices.

2. GPS Tracking Devices: GPS tracking devices can enhance safety for individuals with dementia or brain injuries who may be prone to wandering or getting lost. These devices can be worn discreetly and provide real-time location information, allowing caregivers or family members to locate them quickly if needed.

3. Smart Home Technology: Smart home devices and automation can assist individuals with cognitive or physical limitations in managing various aspects of their home environment. Voice-activated assistants, smart thermostats, automated lighting, and remote-controlled appliances can provide convenience, energy efficiency, and increased accessibility.

4. Electronic Medication Dispensers: Automated medication dispensers can help individuals with memory difficulties adhere to their medication schedules. These devices dispense the correct medication doses at specific times, often accompanied by visual or auditory reminders, reducing the risk of medication errors.

5. Memory Aid Apps: Mobile applications specifically designed for individuals with memory impairments can assist with task management, memory recall, and daily reminders. These apps may include features like interactive calendars, to-do lists, photo albums, and voice recording capabilities.

6. Communication Apps: Specialised communication apps can support individuals with language difficulties or aphasia after a brain injury. These apps may offer picture-based communication systems, text-to-speech functions, or customisable communication boards to facilitate effective communication and self-expression.

7. Wearable Devices: Wearable devices, such as smartwatches or fitness trackers, can serve multiple purposes for individuals with dementia or brain injuries. They can provide reminders, track activity levels, monitor vital signs, and offer safety features like fall detection or emergency alerts.

8.Adaptive Equipment: Adaptive equipment, including mobility aids, assistive tools, and ergonomic devices, can enhance independence and functional abilities. Examples include walking aids, reachers, modified utensils, and grip-enhancing handles, which make daily tasks more manageable for individuals with physical limitations.

9. Environmental Control Systems: Environmental control systems enable individuals to control various aspects of their environment with ease. These systems can include voice-activated controls for lights, temperature, entertainment systems, and security features, empowering individuals to independently manage their surroundings.

10. Cognitive Training Apps: Cognitive training apps and software programs can help individuals with dementia or brain injuries exercise their cognitive abilities. These programs offer interactive exercises that target memory, attention, problem-solving, and other cognitive skills, providing mental stimulation and promoting brain health.

At Lapis Care we work closely with clients who have dementia and we have seen firsthand how these technologies can greatly improve a person’s well-being, safety and independence. From reminder systems and GPS tracking devices to smart home technology and adaptive equipment, these innovative tools empower individuals to engage in daily activities, maintain control over their environment, and overcome cognitive and physical challenges. By incorporating assistive technologies into care plans, individuals can lead more fulfilling lives while reducing dependence on others. It is important to assess individual needs, consult professionals, and select technologies that best match their abilities and preferences, ultimately promoting independence and enhancing their quality of life.

If you would like any further information regarding dementia support please visit: Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline - Dementia UK or

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Incy Wincy Spider

With the unpredictable weather and the season changing we are finding a lot of 8 legged friends in our homes, many who are not so 'Incy Wincy'!

Although we do not wish any harm, and appreciate that they can keep other pests away, many of us do not welcome these creatures into our own homes.

Here are some natural remedies known for keeping spiders at bay:

Create your own fragrance spray. Spiders are not a fan of certain scents, such as citrus, lavender, rose or peppermint. Use around 10-20 drops of these essential oils in some water and use and old spray bottle to spray around your home. Helping deter spiders while also making your home smell great!

2. Horse chestnuts have been known to drive spiders away. Place a few along your windowsills and in doorways, this should stop spiders from hanging out there. Chestnuts last a long time before going bad, making them a good choice.

3. Keeping your house clean and tidy. Spiders will head for dusty areas, especially where cobwebs have previously formed. They also look for dark and cluttered areas to hide. Keeping your house clean and as organised as possible will make your home much less inviting.

4. Make sure your home is sealed. Check for any broken seals around windows and doors and ensure any noticeable cracks in the home are filled. Decorators chalk is perfect for this.

5. House plants. Having plants around your home that have the scents that spiders dislike will also prevent them entering. Why not try, Lavender plants, Rosemary or Chrysanthemums.

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Just a Carer

Knowledge, Dignity and Compassion, these are the values at the very heart of Lapis Care, your local domiciliary Care provider, who continue to raise the profile of care.

Our new Registered manager, Lena LeMesurier has taken the reins and is continuing to deliver the high standard of care, that you would expect from an award-winning care provider. Our Director, Liz Blacklock, has been given a chance to focus on changes that are desperately needed in the care industry and awareness of the professionalism of care.

Recently appointed as a Director of National Association Care and Support workers (NACAS), Liz is creating professional relationships with Care England, Championing Social Care and even visiting the House of Lords in order to change the public perception of Social Care and its workforce. In doing this, we want to implement the registration of ‘Care Professional’s’ as the legal title for a ‘carer’. No more “they’re just a carer”.

Everyone has been, or will experience, care at some point in their lives, even if not for themselves but for family or friends.

Carers should be known worldwide as professionals. Their work involves completing a person’s whole day, from washing, dressing, medication, food preparation, socialisation, organisation, cleaning and so much more. The physical and emotional strain for a carer is tough and the pure passion and empathy that is behind the work they do is outstanding.

No matter who you are, our health is something that we must look after and unfortunately is often out of our control. A carer will step in at some of the hardest parts of a person’s life, to make things easier and help them continue the best quality of life. However, for years a negative stigma has been formed around the care profession and we have heard it too many times, ‘Just a carer’. Lapis Care want this to stop.

In order to make a change locally we have to initiate changes nationally. This is the time now to make difference and spread the awareness and acknowledgment of ‘Care Professionals’.  

If you would like to join this professional Care team or benefit from the services we provide, please visit us at www.lapiscare.com or call us on 01489 890016.

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Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental Health Awareness Week is an annual event organised and hosted by The Mental Health Foundation, the UK’s leading charity for mental health.

Around 1 in 4 people suffer from mental health illnesses in their lifetime. This can be for any number of reasons including; anxiety, personality disorder, eating disorder, PTSD and many more. Many people live their lives trying to hide these often taboo issues, often never getting diagnosed and suffering alone. Mental health awareness week is just one of the ways we can encourage people to talk to each other and offer support. We do not need to go through it alone.

This year the focus point is loneliness. This is a subject very close to our hearts here at Lapis. Many of the clients we care for do not have anyone else other than our visits, this is why we focus on spending time with our clients and getting to know them, just knowing they have someone to talk to can make all the difference. Lapis are currently re launching our day centre services as a key way for people to feel connected again and something to look forward to each week.

For more information on our day services please see: https://www.lapiscare.com/young-at-heart

Although we care mostly for elderly, loneliness can affect any of us at any age. Since the pandemic we have all experienced how hard it can be for ourselves and for others to be unable to reach loved ones and feel isolated. If it has taught us anything, we understand now that communication is a key part of living. Connecting with people can change lives, uplift our mood and bring a sense of togetherness. This ethos is reflected day in day out as a carer at Lapis Care and we want this notion to continue throughout your communities.

Here are some easy ideas for how you can help with Mental Health Awareness and tackle loneliness:

Get connecting! Reach out to people, whether its friends, family, colleagues, neighbours.

Raise awareness around mental health, whether via word of mouth, social media or your own fundraising events. Ask your local community, social group, work place etc to raise awareness and engage with these issues, the more we talk together about mental health the more we can help.

Become a Volunteer. Use some of your free time with local charities, for example ‘Clic’ an online & telephone service used for people who need someone to reach out to.

Please see links below for more information about Mental Health awareness and where to find help and advice if you or somebody you know might need this.

You are not alone.

 ·         https://mentalhealth-uk.org/help-and-information/

·         https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/social-care-and-your-rights/how-to-access-mental-health-services/

·         https://clic-uk.org/

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A Spring in our step!

Spring has finally arrived and with it some positive news about our current situation. With a year past since the first national lock down, many of us have suffered a confusing and lonely time. With the latest government road-map, we are able to see an end in sight and with it, a huge weight is lifting from our shoulders, filling us with positivity about the year ahead and even making tentative plans.

Those sunny days and lighter evenings are a perfect time for a fresh start and a new beginning. Having a de-clutter, spring clean and keeping those green fingers busy in the garden, is a great way to clear your mind and give you something to focus on.

Spring cleaning doesn’t just have to mean cleaning out those cupboards, it is an opportunity to re-start and re-boot. Make time for yourself once a day, go for a long walk, spend time in the garden, listen to your favourite music, read a book, enjoy some time just for yourself. This is especially important at present; allowing ourselves to unwind and concentrate on an interest helps us to keep happy and energized. This Spring is coming with a pinch of hope and we are hopeful that better days are approaching!

Here at Lapis Care we are also getting into the spirit of spring, continuing our ‘Lapis Care Cleaning’. This service is an addition to the ‘personal care’ we provide, but something we are just as passionate about. Ensuring peoples homes and clean and safe, taking away the pressure of chores and leaving you relaxed in your clean and fresh home. We also offer every 8th clean free with our loyalty card.

We are happy to announce our ‘Fish & Chips Fridays’ are back in full swing; we work with our local fish and chip shop to deliver your Friday lunchtime treat straight to your door!

Lapis Care are always looking to lend a hand: having registered nurses on board has helped us do our bit to get everyone back to ‘normal’. Our director Liz -RGN, (as an ex- practice nurse) has volunteered herself once a week to support one of the local vaccination programmes and administer the vaccines. We are so pleased to be able to help towards seeing that light at the end of the tunnel. Liz feels at home again in this environment and we are so pleased she has been able to help so many people.

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Social Isolation

Our older generation, they've seen a lot and lived through many experiences and changes.

Although now taking life a little slower, they still shouldn't have to spend it alone.

 Becoming lonely can be a very common problem at any age, however the possibility of loneliness is higher within the elderly, leading to social isolation.  

1 in 3 over 65's have experienced bereavement of a partner, resulting in living alone.

At Lapis Care, we encourage people to be independent for as long as they possible can, this also includes high encouragement to continue to persue hobbies and interests that people enjoy or ensuring quality time is spent with others.

We can share with experience that these things will and do increase people moral and happiness, which enriches their lives.

There are many circumstances that can impact social isolation and also barriers we need to overcome.

As part of Lapis Cares' Enrichment Initiative (and because its feel good Friday!) We have been meeting with clients, especially throughout this pandemic, that have not been able to get out recently and who are missing their usual social outings, including our 'Young at Heart' day service.

Our staff have been dedicating time with these clients to ensure they are still getting the social interaction they need. This has included, shopping trips, playing cards, doing crafts, gardening and even trips out.

This is a lovely photo taken last week, one of our clients enjoying a day out at the seaside!

Please reach out to friends, family and neighbours if you know they are living alone or not seeing many people, especially at this time. It is an opportunity to reach out and let them know they are not alone. Even a conversation can change someone's day.

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In a world where we can be anything- Be Kind

On average people spend around 20 hours a week caring for a vulnerable family member, spending time with elderly relatives that may need extra help doing everyday things or even socialising with family living alone.

During the Covid-19 lock-down restrictions, this has become increasingly difficult as we are no longer able to spend this quality time with each other. This can be a very difficult time for everyone.

The government has advised that if you are providing personal care for someone, these visits are still permitted, although should be kept to a minimum and to wear personal protective equipment. Any surfaces or household items that you come in contact with should also be disinfected.

Alternatively if you can avoid going into someone's home, then you should. Dropping off food or essentials to the door and conversations at a distance. If you are able to, you are also now allowed to meet in a open space or garden and socialise, keeping a safe (2m) distance between you. Why not take advantage of regular phone calls or even video chats!

Most importantly, before and after visiting anyone outside of your home, please wash your hands and/or use 70% alcohol based hand sanitiser.

Staying positive is our main focus. We are all in this together and we will all get through this together. Lapis Care are committed to providing physical and mental well-being, we are regularly checking up on clients, especially living alone and also visiting previous clients just to ensure they are safe, well and have everything they may need. In this uncertain time need to focus on what makes us happy and appreciate the little things.

We want to encourage everyone to look out for each other, here are a few ideas of how to show someone you are there!

Show your kindness:

Call your friends, especially if you haven't spoke for a while

Tell your family how much you appreciate them

Help each other around the house, cooking, chores or even just making a cup of tea

Arrange a video call with your friends/family

Send a motivational text to someone who is struggling

Send someone a joke or a cute animal picture to brighten their day

Contact your colleagues, there in the same boat as you

Spend quality time with your pets

Donate to a charity or food bank

Send someone a food package of treats

Check on your neighbours

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Feel Good Fridays

Check out our new handmade head band scarves given to all our wonderful Lapis Staff! 

Its been a scorcher out there!

Our carers, in full PPE, can often suffer in the heat. Our management have made these beautiful head scarves to help pull back their hair and they also helps face masks hold in place. 

We have had to make many changes throughout this Covid-19 outbreak, however we feel it has made us stronger as a team and we will always continue to work together to ensure our staff and clients are happy!

Cared for Staff= Cared for Clients 

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Teaching old dogs new tricks

If 80 is the new 50 and 50 is the new 30, is May day the new new year? 

If so, whats your new years resolution?

What about something simple, like trying something new?

And we don’t mean learning to type rope walking, we just mean learning a new craft, or having a new hobby or even making new friends. 

Studies show that learning new skills and regular socialising helps rebuild and regenerate the brain. 

Which leads us seamlessly into the launch of Lapis Health & Event’s Knit & Natter!

Not always knitting but definitely a lot of natter!

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Spring has Sprung!

We need to kick-start the year with a clear out!

No, we don’t mean hoovers and dusters, we mean good food and happiness diaries.

Here are some simple steps to spring clean your life.

·         Choose local produce- It’s cheaper, it’s more likely to be organically grown and seasonal is always best.

·         Venture outside- There’s no such thing as inappropriate weather just inappropriately dressed people. Fresh air and daylight are vital for a healthy lifestyle, so grab your wellies! (If you can’t get outside, crack open that window).

·         Do a happiness diary- Keep a log of one thing that makes you happy every day for an entire month, if you have nothing by the end of the day, take action and do something that does.

·         Learn to say No- Stop trying to please everybody if it doesn’t make you happy. People around you will understand if they care for you.

·         … Free for a month- Try a month without something; Dairy, Chocolate, Meat, Alcohol. Sometimes a good cleanse is all you need.

·         Are you due a health Mot?- Arrange your doctors’ appointment. Do you need a medication review or a screening? It is vital to get these things sorted, even just for peace of mind.

·         Organise your inbox- Sort through your mail, is there is anything you need to respond to? Do you need to review your utility bills? You never know you might find a hidden cheque you haven’t cashed!

Just remember these don’t have to be achieved all in one go, but they’re food for thought for the year, or until we need to get summer body ready.

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Benefits of Socalisation

Venting, Having a natter or a good old chin wag can be a tiny slice of pure socialisation heaven in someones day.

But imagine if you couldn’t do that because of your health, location or lack of social support. 

Over the next few weeks Lapis Care will explore ways to end social isolation. Looking more in depth at social prescribing and ways everyone can be more social. 

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Complicated Made Easy

Now the 5 months of January are slowly coming to an end, how has it left your bank balance? If the answer is the only deposit is moth dust then what could be done differently to help you in the future?

Did you set a budget for December to see you through till January? Do you do the same throughout the year? What about unexpected costs? We don’t mean spontaneous weekends away, we mean planning for the worst or due to age the inevitable- CARE COSTS.

Care doesn’t have to be scary and doesn’t have to cost the earth for high quality service. The easiest thing for you to do to avoid a long cold winter when it comes to unexpected care costs is to be armed with knowledge and information of what is available!

In the next few weeks, here at Lapis we will release a mini series of the true cost of care, how to source available high quality care and how to Future-proof yourself, should the need arise. 

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Fish and Chips Friday!

That smell of Fish & Chips and the nostalgic feeling it brings to many, is one that we cannot resist.

As a treat to our wonderful clients we have decided to bring a home delivered fish and chips to them on the last Friday of every month.

With a huge shout out to Wickham Fisheries who have made this happen for us, even in throughout this difficult time and their reduced open hours!

Today was our first run at Fish and Chips Fridays and as you can imagine it went down a storm! Many of our clients tucking into their favourite dish this Friday lunchtime.

Lapis Care always strive to go above and beyond for our clients and although just a little extra treat for them, it has made such a difference today and we cant wait to do it all again next month.

Happy Friday Everyone!

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Feel Good Friday!

Here’s our 2nd addition to Feel Good Fridays.

This week is all about Thank You! 

Along with many of you, we hugely praise our NHS staff and all the key workers on a Thursday evening with a huge round of applause with our neighbours.

For us at Lapis- we are definitely clapping for our wonderful carers who work so hard and with great compassion. 

We are pleased to share the appreciation we have also received from our clients. One of these letters is from a client herself and the other is from family members regarding the care we gave to their mum, sadly who is no longer with us. 

The support and appreciation from all our clients and their families is so rewarding and is the reason we do what we do! 

Coming up next week... FISH AND CHIPS FRIDAYS!!