Enhancing Quality of Life Through Holistic Behavioural Support in Long-Term Care Facilities

In long-term care, enhancing the quality of life for residents is a crucial goal. This is especially important for individuals dealing with responsive behaviors related to conditions like dementia. In response to this challenge, Nakile Home for Special Care in Argyle and Bay Side Home in Barrington have launched a transformative pilot project. Now into its third year, this initiative aims to provide dedicated behavioral support resources that are holistic and centered on the individual.

This partnership between the two facilities demonstrates a strong commitment to improving residents' lives by addressing their unique needs through tailored support. The behavioral support team consists of skilled professionals whose experience and compassion ensure that every resident receives the care they deserve.

The Holistic Approach to Behavioral Support

At the core of this initiative is a holistic approach to behavioral support. Team Lead Rachel Stoddard, a Licensed Practical Nurse, advocates for this philosophy by promoting best practices and a person-centred mindset. Her commitment to developing and utilizing personalized behavioral care plans enables the care team to action strategies that enhance residents’ quality of life. Whether residents are facing daily routine challenges, crisis situations, medication changes, or past trauma, the support aims to meet them where they are.

This holistic perspective recognizes that every resident is a unique individual with their own history and preferences. By focusing on the person rather than just their symptoms, the team creates a supportive environment that nurtures dignity and respect.

Meet the Behavioral Support Team

The success of this initiative relies heavily on the dedication of the professionals within the behavioral support team.

Rachel Stoddard (LPN)

As the Team Lead, Rachel Stoddard brings considerable knowledge and compassion to her role. Her approach emphasizes understanding the individual behind the behavior. By advocating for residents and implementing best practices, Rachel ensures that care is both effective and respectful of each person's dignity.

For example, Rachel has developed behavioral care plans for residents struggling with specific issues, such as managing anxiety during challenging times. This personalized strategy enables the care team to respond effectively, ultimately improving the residents' overall quality of life.

Brynn Lowe (CCA)

At Nakile Home for Special Care, Behavioral Support Worker Brynn Lowe is instrumental in delivering compassionate care. Her resident-first mindset prioritizes dignity and respect, making her a vital team member. Brynn knows that every resident has a unique story and she strives each day to create a supportive environment where they feel valued.

By engaging residents in one-on-one interactions and group activities, Brynn fosters meaningful connections that enhance their well-being. This focused approach helps residents express themselves and reduce feelings of isolation.

Jennifer Nickerson (LPN)

At Bay Side Home, Behavioral Support Worker Jennifer Nickerson brings a wealth of experience to her role. She believes in a collaborative team approach, recognizing that effective care requires input from all caregivers involved. Jennifer's respect for each resident's individuality ensures that their care plans reflect their unique preferences and needs.

Her teamwork approach includes involving families in care discussions. This approach has improved engagement and has made a significant difference in the quality of care residents receive.

Comprehensive Support Strategies

The behavioral support resources developed through this partnership cover a wide range of strategies to meet residents' diverse needs. These supports may include:

• Mental Health Approaches: The team uses various mental health strategies to help residents cope with emotional and psychological challenges. For example, they offer mindfulness activities that have led to a noticeable decrease in reported anxiety levels among participants.

  
  

• Recreational Therapy: Engaging residents in various recreational activities supports their physical health and promotes social interaction. Encouraging activities that cater to individual interests, fosters enhanced emotional well-being.

  
  

By implementing these comprehensive support strategies, the behavioral support team aims to create an atmosphere where residents feel valued, safe, and empowered and care team members feel supported and empowered to carry forward the same approach.

The Impact of Holistic Behavioral Support

The benefits of this holistic behavioral support initiative are evident at both Nakile Home and Bay Side Home. Residents and staff report improved quality of resident life, greater engagement in activities, and a stronger sense of belonging within their communities.

As the pilot project moves into its third year, the commitment to enhancing residents' quality of life remains unwavering. The partnership between Nakile Home and Bay Side Home serves as a shining example of how dedicated behavioral support can transform the lives of individuals in long-term care.

Positive Change Through Supportive Care

The collaboration between Nakile Home for Special Care and Bay Side Home in Barrington showcases the effectiveness of holistic behavioral support in long-term care. By prioritizing the individual needs of residents with comprehensive support strategies, this initiative significantly improves the lives of those experiencing responsive behaviors.

Under the leadership of professionals like Rachel Stoddard, Brynn Lowe, and Jennifer Nickerson, residents are receiving compassionate care that respects their dignity. As this project continues to grow, it promises to further enhance the quality of life for individuals in long-term care. Through this partnership, these homes are not just providing care; they are cultivating a community where every person is respected, valued, and empowered to live their best life.

Please take a moment to watch the video below for more information on the Behavioural Support Program and the individuals that make up this valued and important team.