On a morning that didn’t start particularly well, Kay's day took an unexpected turn when Specialised Dementia Carer Nicole unlocked a hidden pleasure from Kay's past.

Kay, who lives with dementia, has been a resident at HammondCare Miranda for eighteen months. She loves chatting with staff and other residents and keeping busy around the care home. But one day, Specialised Dementia Carer Nicole noticed that Kay appeared increasingly agitated and anxious. So, she tried something new.

Knowing Kay’s life story and how she had loved her job as an office manager, Nicole invited Kay into the main office to help out for the morning. And for Kay, the familiar environment provided a calming effect almost immediately.

Kay’s first job was to check the roster, making sure everyone had turned up for work. She was pleased to confirm that this was the case.

Next task, to interview a new recruit for an upcoming nursing role. Team member Srijana stepped in to roleplay as a candidate. At the conclusion of the interview Kay advised Srijana that she would ‘go far up the ladder and make her mum proud’, thanking her for coming with a shake of the hand.

‘Kay returned to her cottage much happier than when she had started her day, with a spring in her step,’ said Nicole.

Residential Manager Liza shares, ‘Our relationship-based approach to care means we prioritise taking the time to get to know each resident as a person, their own unique story and life experience. Kay’s story is just one example.’

Kay’s husband Ken visits daily and says, ‘It was a difficult period for the whole family when Kay left home and moved into care. We were all anxious. But to see how she is so engaged and happy here, I know we’ve made the right choice. The team really try to get to know the person and their family. They’re like family, too.’