Rethinking Wandering in Care Homes

About this episode

This episode discusses the complexities of wandering in dementia care and its significance as a meaningful activity.

In this episode of the Dementia Researcher Podcast Dr Anna Volkmer hosts a discussion exploring the complexities of wandering in dementia care. Dr Bryony Waters-Harvey & Dr Emma Hock from The University of Sheffield and Conny McGowan from The Orders of St John Care Trust discuss their research and outcomes of the NIHR funded "FREEDEM study" - Reframing 'wandering' as a meaningful activity using realist synthesis and qualitative exploration Takeaways Wandering is often a meaningful activity for residents. Individualised care plans are crucial for supporting residents. Language matters in how we perceive wandering. Positive risk-taking can enhance residents' quality of life. Hydration and nutrition are important for wandering residents. Research should focus on the positive aspects of wandering. Care staff need training to support safe wandering. Environmental factors significantly impact wandering behavior. Residents should have access to outdoor spaces. Future research should involve residents and their families Access the toolkit and resources: https://sites.google.com/sheffield.ac.uk/freedem/home Strategies to support safe wandering in care homes for older adults – what…

People in this episode

Guests: Conny McGowan, Dr Emma Hock, Dr Bryony Waters-Harvey

Topics covered

• wandering
• dementia care
• individualized care
• research
• meaningful activity

Keywords

• FREEDEM study
• realist synthesis
• qualitative exploration
• positive risk-taking
• hydration
• nutrition

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Rethinking Wandering in Care Homes, Dementia Researcher The Blogs

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