As South Africa’s ageing population grows, more families are facing the challenges of caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s and dementia. These neurodegenerative conditions require not only medical care but also comprehensive support to manage cognitive decline and the emotional toll it takes on both patients and their families. Livewell Estates, a private care facility specialising in Alzheimer’s and dementia care, offers a holistic and integrated approach that ensures residents receive the highest quality care in a dignified, compassionate environment.
A holistic approach to care
At the core of Livewell’s care philosophy is a belief in treating every individual with dignity and respect. Ageing, particularly when complicated by dementia or Alzheimer’s, often leads to a loss of independence, but Livewell strives to maintain each resident’s autonomy as much as possible. The team recognises that although residents may face cognitive and physical limitations, they still deserve to exercise freedom of choice in matters that affect their daily lives. This respect for personal dignity underpins all aspects of care at Livewell, helping residents age gracefully.
Livewell’s care model is based on six key pillars of wellness: hygiene, exercise, nutrition, cognitive stimulation, social interaction, and medication administration. These principles guide the individualised care plans for every resident, ensuring that all aspects of their health and well-being are managed comprehensively.
Individualised care programs
One of the key elements that sets Livewell apart is the personalised care plan developed for each resident. Upon admission, every individual undergoes a thorough occupational therapy (OT) assessment, followed by consultations with a specialist doctor. Based on these assessments, Livewell’s Head of Occupational Therapy (Bryanston), in collaboration with medical professionals, creates a customised care program that addresses the resident’s specific needs.
This tailored plan encompasses:
- Medication administration: Ensuring that all prescriptions are accurately followed and regularly reviewed.
- Nutritional needs assessment: Crafting meal plans that promote physical health while taking into account individual dietary needs.
- Exercise assessment: Incorporating physical activities that enhance mobility, strength, and overall health.
- Cognitive stimulation: Offering activities and therapies designed to keep residents mentally engaged and slow cognitive decline.
- Hygiene management: Ensuring daily grooming and cleanliness to preserve dignity.
- Social interaction management: Facilitating activities that encourage social engagement, combat loneliness, and promote emotional well-being.
This approach ensures that residents receive care that’s not only specific to their medical conditions but also aligned with their preferences and personal history.
Specialist care for Alzheimer’s, dementia, and more
Livewell specialises in providing dedicated care for dementia, Alzheimer’s, and related conditions such as Parkinson’s disease. The level of care is adapted to each resident’s needs, ranging from a 1:1 caregiver-to-resident ratio to a 1:3 ratio for those with milder symptoms. This flexibility allows for more intensive care where necessary and helps ensure that all residents receive the attention they need to thrive.
The care team at Livewell Bryanston is extensive and includes:
- A GP is on call 24 hours a day to manage medical emergencies and oversee health.
- ER Ambulance services are available 24/7 to respond quickly in critical situations.
- An Occupational Therapist is responsible for developing and managing activity programs that stimulate residents cognitively and socially.
- A Biokineticist who designs exercise programs to maintain residents’ physical health and mobility.
- A Dietician who ensures that meals are balanced, nutritious, and tailored to individual dietary needs.
- Registered nurses, enrolled nurses, and caregivers who handle day-to-day care, from administering medications to assisting with personal hygiene.
This multidisciplinary team ensures that the daily needs of each resident are meticulously managed, while also responding to changes in health or behavior as they arise.
An emphasis on social well-being
At Livewell, social interaction is considered just as important as physical and cognitive care. Dementia and Alzheimer’s can be isolating conditions, but Livewell’s team actively works to keep residents engaged and socially connected. Through carefully designed activities, group events, and one-on-one interaction, residents are encouraged to participate in a community that fosters emotional well-being.
The Lifestyle Coordinator plays a critical role in organising events and activities that keep residents mentally stimulated and socially active. These activities include art therapy, music sessions, and group exercises that not only provide joy but also help slow cognitive decline.
Additional services: Respite, Palliative, and Short-term Care
In addition to long-term dementia care, Livewell offers short-term stays, respite care, palliative care, and rehabilitative care. These services are invaluable for families who need temporary relief from caregiving responsibilities or specialised support during challenging periods. Respite care allows family caregivers to take a break, knowing their loved one is in a safe, professional environment. This is particularly helpful for caregivers who are balancing their own lives and responsibilities with the demands of full-time care, a situation that can cause immense stress and emotional turmoil.
Why choose Livewell for dementia care in South Africa?
Livewell Bryanston is licensed with the Department of Social Development and follows strict guidelines for healthcare and resident management. The facility boasts a staff of registered nurses, healthcare professionals, and specialists who are deeply committed to providing the best possible care for residents. Whether for long-term or short-term needs, families can trust that their loved ones will be treated with respect, compassion, and the utmost professionalism.
With a vision of ensuring dignity in ageing, Livewell offers a comprehensive, person-centred approach to dementia and Alzheimer’s care, one that recognizes the unique needs of each resident while supporting families through the challenges of these difficult conditions. For more information or to schedule a visit, please contact Livewell Estates and discover how we can support your loved one in living a dignified, fulfilling life.