Restoring Trust – Lyla’s journey through dementia with Hopscotch Homecare

Category – Dementia Care

How specialised support and compassionate care transformed the life of an elderly lady battling dementia

Situation

Lyla is an 89-year-old woman of Syrian origin living alone in a privately owned flat in Camden. She has no next of kin, and her husband passed away in 2012. Lyla has progressive dementia, which severely affects her ability to manage her daily routine and tasks.

Challenge

Lyla initially declined support due to significant trust issues, complicating her ability to manage shopping, food preparation, and maintaining her flat. Her dementia made decision-making difficult, and her advancing condition increased the risk of medication overdoses. Friends, who initially supported her, began struggling with her behaviour changes and needed to step back from helping Lyla with her care.

Support

Hopscotch Homecare provided a small team of dementia care specialists who worked patiently to build trust with Lyla. They tailored their approach to her needs, ensuring constant communication and offering choices to empower her. The care package included –

• Regular assessments to update Lyla’s changing medication. 
• Increased daily visits during morning and teatime.
• Installation of a key safe for medication to prevent overdosing.
• Collaboration with an Occupational Therapist for a comprehensive support plan.
• Encouragement for Lyla to go out for shopping and to socialise.
• A consistent meal and preparation plan was developed with Lyla, to ensure the availability of healthy food.

Impact

1. Lyla’s quality of life improved significantly. She began eating more regularly and healthily, with her shopping and home maintenance well-managed by her Care Workers.
2. Lyla grew closer to her Care Workers, sharing personal aspects of her life, which fostered trust and alleviated her suspicions towards her friends.
3. As a result, Lyla’s friends were able to step back into their friendship, knowing she was well cared for. Lyla’s life has become meaningful and interesting, maintaining her confidence through daily routines.
4. The ongoing support reassured her that she could continue living independently with her dementia.
5. Additionally, Lyla now has a reliable point of contact at Hopscotch for any moments of confusion or agitation, further enhancing her sense of security and well-being.