Ah, June – that magical time of year when summer officially begins and we find ourselves daydreaming about basking in the sun and firing up the BBQ. 

As we eagerly countdown to those cherished moments outdoors, it's worth noting that our mental and physical well-being can truly thrive in the great outdoors. However, amidst all the excitement, we must also be mindful that excessive heat exposure can cause health risks for the elderly.

Climate change is already causing warmer weather throughout the UK, with temperatures in previous years exceeding 40℃. With an increased chance of heat stroke and lung problems in many elderly residents, it’s more important than ever to prepare your care home for the warmer months ahead. 

Keep Indoor Spaces Cool 

As people aged 65 and over are at a higher risk of becoming unwell in hot weather, indoor spaces must be kept below 26℃. Closing blinds and curtains or installing external shutters can block out direct sunlight, helping to reduce the room temperature. 

We also recommend opening windows, especially at night when the air outside is cooler than inside. This allows fresh air to circulate throughout the home while avoiding the risk of letting heat enter the space. 

Stay Hydrated

As the body ages, it is less able to conserve water and less aware of thirst signals. With an already increased chance of dehydration combined with hot weather, care homes should take extra precautions when offering fluids to residents. 

Drinks such as water, diluted squash and low-fat milk are good options for keeping residents hydrated in warm climates. However, choices such as fruit juices, smoothies, and soft drinks should be limited, as they can be high in sugar and cause dehydration. 

Dress for the Weather 

Changing wardrobes can often be forgotten about when preparing for hot weather. However, swapping around winter wardrobes with summer ones can help to prevent residents from overheating or getting ill.

Lightweight, loose-fitting and light-coloured clothing options are a go-to for warm days, offering residents a cool and comfortable dressing option. Essentials such as sunglasses, hats and sun cream are also important, especially if your care home is planning outdoor activities. 

Plan Exciting Activities 

Everyone will undoubtedly want to make the most of the sunny days. Planning outdoor activities, such as gardening, games and arts and crafts are all great ways to get residents involved. 

Ideally, festivities should be arranged earlier during the day to avoid the warmer afternoons. Care homes should also offer an indoor-outdoor environment to provide everyone with access to cooler spaces in case they begin to feel too warm. 

Get Summer Ready with Andway 

Whilst everyone wants to get the chance to enjoy the long, hot summer days, care homes should take extra precautions when planning for the warmer months. If any residents begin to show signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, you should seek medical advice immediately. 

If you would like further advice on how to keep residents safe and entertained during summer, a member of the Andway team will be happy to help! 

We have adopted new Terms and Conditions for all customers, please visit https://www.andwayhealthcare.com/conditions-of-use to review.

Any questions or queries or to recieve a PDF copy of the document please call 01423 331000 or email sales@andwayhealthcare.org.uk

Fit for a King: Getting Your Care Home Ready for the Coronation

Creating a fun, nurturing and inclusive environment is essential within care homes. Not only does it allow residents and staff to feel at ease, but it can also help to improve morale, inspire happiness and build enduring relationships.

As we approach the coronation of King Charles III, millions of people across the country will be coming together to celebrate. With communities across England and the rest of the world uniting in commemoration, it is equally important for care homes to join in the festivities, creating regal environments for residents and visitors to enjoy even beyond the coronation! 

Prepare Your Care Home for the Coronation

As we get older, it is easy to become socially isolated. In a recent study, Age UK found that 1.4 million older people in the UK are often lonely. With this in mind, care home owners must support and foster communities that bring residents, visitors and staff together, helping to create one big (royal) family. 

One way to achieve this is through events, parties and activities designed to encourage, entertain and delight your residents. Considering this, here are some ways you can bring the coronation celebrations into your care home for those who may even remember the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II back in 1953.

Why not embellish your space with patriotic colours and banners to help get residents into the spirit of the celebration? With splashes of red, white and blue bunting and flags, you could also enforce a colour-coordinated dress code so that everyone can get involved.

Craft activities can also be a great way for residents to engage with the king’s coronation whilst having a positive impact on their social, motor and cognitive skills. Activities such as colouring, painting and knitting can be excellent ways to bring residents together, encouraging them to communicate and remain active.

Get the Royal Treatment With Andway

With over 60 years of experience working within the healthcare sector, the team at Andway are well versed in delivering the royal treatment. 

Utilising our specialist advice and extensive knowledge of the care industry, we help care home owners across the country create positive, supportive environments where their residents can thrive. 

From premium account management to our 12-hour delivery promise, we go above and beyond to ensure that our clients across the UK are well-serviced, ensuring that each and every care home is treated like royalty.

Value for money is at the core of every service we provide. We’re always looking for ways to help your care home operate at its best whilst keeping costs in check. Not only does this allow you to focus on other aspects of residential care, but it also provides carers with more dedicated and valuable time with residents. 

Together, let's bring some of the royal treatment to your residents’ lives. Don’t hesitate to contact a member of our team for more information.

World Health Day 2023 

7th April 2023 marked the 75th anniversary of the internationally celebrated World Health Day. The World Health Organisation (WHO) along with 194 other Member States and partners will be coming together to call for a renewed drive for health equity. 

This year, the WHO is calling on governments and leaders to take action to help protect and invest in healthcare workers who are at the forefront of the response to health and climate emergencies. As the world emerges from the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, WHO’s roadmap to recovery includes a shift towards promoting health and well-being and discovering the root causes of diseases to help prevent them. 

What is World Health Day? 

During the aftermath of World War II, the Constitution of the World Health Organisation came into force to recognise that health was not only a fundamental human right but also essential for peace and security. 

75 years later, there has been continuous significant progress in protecting people from diseases and destruction, including the eradication of smallpox, reducing the cases of polio by 99% and saving millions of lives through childhood vaccinations. 

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus WHO Director-General, described the “vast inequities in access to health services, major gaps in the world’s defences against health emergencies, and threats from health harming products and the climate crisis” which can only be met with global cooperation. 

World Health Day 2023 

This year's celebration of World Health Day is an opportunity to look back at the public health successes that have helped to improve the global quality of life during the last seven decades. 

Although the standard of living has significantly evolved since 1948, World Health Day is a chance to encourage and motivate people to tackle the health challenges of today. There are many evolving problems that modern healthcare is currently facing, including a rapidly ageing population, increasing disability attributed to non-communicable diseases (NDCs) and climate change and natural disasters. 

The National Library of Medicine also found that low-middle income countries are experiencing these contemporary challenges along with the ongoing challenges of communicable diseases, making it more important than ever to dedicate our time to research.

World Health Day 2023 at Andway  

As a specialist healthcare supplier, Andway understands the immense challenges faced within the industry. We are passionate about actively promoting health equity each and every day through our work and are committed to continuous improvement. 

We would like to take the opportunity of World Health Day to say a big thank you to everyone who helps us to look after our communities. 

If you would like to know more about how we are working to support the healthcare industry, get in touch today. 

What is the Importance of Bed Servicing in Care Homes?

The population of UK care homes is over 400,000, with around 85% of patients living in residential settings. With this in mind, beds and mattresses are used daily within care facilities and are essential for the health and comfort of residents and carers.

Although bed maintenance is often overlooked by care operators, it continues to play a leading role in the safety of everyone within the facility.

Here, we explore the importance of bed maintenance and the different components to look out for when carrying out risk assessments.

What Types of Beds are in Care Homes?

There are various bed types and mattresses on the market that are specifically designed for care home environments. From profiling beds to pressure alternating mattresses, care homes should offer the correct sleeping arrangement to benefit the residents.

Profiling beds are among the most commonly found beds in care homes; their design contributes towards the comfort, quality of life and recovery of patients. Helping to support the neck, head, back, and hips, the mattress is made of different sections to independently reposition residents using motor-driven mechanisms. Due to the automated turning and tilting, the profiling beds also aid carers by reducing the risks of manual handling related injuries.

Why Should Beds Be Serviced?

Beds and mattresses are crucial pieces of equipment within care homes and should be regularly maintained and serviced to ensure they are serving the residents and carers correctly.

Adhere to Compliance

There are vital pieces of legislation that govern the maintenance of beds within care environments, including the Provision of Use and Work Equipment Regulation (PUWER) and the UK Medical Devices Regulations.

Both regulations state that equipment provided at work must be “safe for use, maintained in a safe condition and inspected regularly to ensure someone correctly installed it and it does not subsequently deteriorate”.

Reduce Resident Risk

The healthcare sector uses aids such as safety rails to protect vulnerable people from the risk of falling out of bed. However, if these devices are not maintained correctly, they can cause patients to become trapped and induce serious harm.

Having beds regularly serviced by qualified individuals allows care home operators to ensure the equipment complies with the BS EN Dimensional Requirements. However, it is also essential for workers to carry out regular risk assessments on beds and accessories to prioritise the health and wellbeing of the residents.

What Is the Process of Servicing Beds in Care Homes?

Each bed should be serviced and maintained according to the manufacturer's recommendations in the user manual.

During the service, the engineer should check the general condition of the bed, frame and all pivot points including the head and footboard. Any mechanical faults should be assessed along with fixing away any loose wires and cables. If applicable, the break functions should also be tested.

How Often Should Beds Be Serviced?

It is recommended that beds and mattresses are serviced by a qualified engineer at least every 12 months. Safety critical parts which could cause the equipment to fail should have a formal system of planned preventative maintenance to ensure that they are returned back to HSE standards.

At Andway, we offer service and inspections on all beds and mattresses. Our experienced engineers are here to ensure that your care home equipment meets PUWER standards while helping to save you money on emergency repairs.

For more information or to enquire about our maintenance services, contact us today!

The Importance of Nutrition in the Elderly 

Good nutrition is important for everyone no matter your age. Not only can a good diet boost your energy levels, but it can also help control your weight and mental health, which is especially important as we age. 

Nutritional problems in the elderly can cause several health complications, including a weakened immune system, lowered energy levels, and other chronic health issues. By making small changes to diet, such as incorporating more fruit and healthy fats into everyday meals, the risk of health implications can be reduced. 

Nutritional Concerns

When considering nutritional implications for the elderly, there are three main areas of concern that should be regularly monitored. 

Weight 

Both weight loss and weight gain frequently effect elderly people. It is important to keep an eye on their fluctuating weight to ensure they remain at a healthy level.

As people age, their metabolisms and energy levels decrease meaning that they have an increased risk of obesity. Alternatively, limited access to food and reduced appetites can lead to dramatic weight loss along with plummeting energy levels. 

Taste 

Elderly people can have problems recognising salty and bitter tastes, making it more common to oversalt food. Not only can this lead to an increased salt intake placing more strain on their hearts, but it can also cause a rise in blood pressure. 

Dehydration 

With the body being less able to conserve water and less attuned to thirst signals, elderly people are more likely to suffer from dehydration. This is a serious issue within older generations, with dehydration causing severe health implications. Encouraging a healthy water intake can help to reduce the risk of severe dehydration.

Avoid Cholesterol and Fat 

Cholesterol is important for keeping the cells in our bodies healthy. However, if cholesterol levels get too high, your blood vessels can become blocked, increasing chances of heart problems or strokes. 

High cholesterol can be caused by eating fatty foods, not exercising enough, and being overweight.  

What Foods Can Help Keep a Balanced Diet? 

There are many different foods which can nutritionally benefit the elderly. While fruits and vegetables are a staple food group for maintaining weight and energy levels, it is also important to incorporate healthy fats and proteins. 

Protein

Foods such as fish, lean meats, poultry, and eggs are all great sources of protein. Not only can these foods help to maintain your overall health, but they are also great for repairing the body after injury. 

Carbohydrates 

Potatoes, bread, rice, and other carbohydrates provide the body with energy and nutrients, which are essential for the body as we age. 

Fluids 

Fluids are equally as important as other food groups. Water is vital for keeping our bodies healthy and energised. Age UK recommends that the elderly should “aim for 6-8 glasses of fluid a day”. However, this does not have to be solely water; milk, tea, and soups count too. 

How Can Andway Help?

Here at Andway, we understand how important it is to maintain a healthy, balanced diet, especially as we grow older. 

Whether you are looking for catering supplies or weighing equipment, we have a range of supplies to help keep your patients healthy. For more information, contact a member of our team today!

Being a carer comes with many responsibilities; and with that, your top priority must be the well-being of your patients.

Urinary incontinence can significantly impact a person’s confidence and mental health. With issues including embarrassment and involuntary stress, it’s up to the caregiver to ensure their patient gets the help they need.

What Is Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence, also known as an overactive bladder, can affect anyone. The condition is more common in older people, particularly women, and it’s estimated that 1 in 2 of us will be diagnosed with a urological issue at some stage in our lives. 

The first signs of incontinence can include problems passing urine, both before and after the urge to go to the toilet. While incontinence is not an inevitable part of ageing, it can be managed and even prevented with effective treatments.

What Are the Two Main Types of Incontinence?

While many people experience occasional incontinence, others may have more frequent occurrences. However, there are two significant forms of incontinence to be aware of:

Stress Incontinence

Stress incontinence is when a person’s bladder leaks when it is put under sudden, extra pressure. Sudden stress can be caused when coughing or when lifting heavy objects.

Urge Incontinence

Urge incontinence can often cause a person to have the sudden and intense need to urinate with no control over it. This form of incontinence can be caused by conditions such as infections or neurological disorders.

How Can a Carer Help with Incontinence?

There are many causes for incontinence, but a continence service assessment can help to establish a plan for both the carer and the patient. The information collected during this assessment includes the patient’s medical history, how often the patient passes urine and the details of their diet and fluid intake.

Carers will also help to treat or manage incontinence depending on the type and cause of the person’s incontinence. They can also help with bladder and toilet training.

Changes to a person’s toilet situation can also be implemented, with aids such as a raised toilet or wall-mounted grab bar, providing support for patients who are particularly unsteady on their feet. It is also important to pay attention to a patient’s toilet patterns, considering how often they urinate to help the carer and doctor assess the severity of the situation.

When to Get Professional Help

If incontinence is causing significant disruption to a patient’s everyday lifestyle and is beginning to affect their mental health, it could be time to see a professional.

By visiting a GP or a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, both the carer and patient can begin to discuss the next steps. A GP will usually ask for a urine sample, which will help to check for problems such as blood in the urine. GPs will also commonly refer the patient to a specialist for extra testing including an ultrasound or urodynamic testing.

How Can Andway Help?

Here at Andway, we offer a range of practical solutions to help manage incontinence. From protective undergarments to PU mattress protectors, our product range includes almost everything you will need to keep incontinence under control.

If you would like more advice on incontinence, contact a member of our team today!

Promoting Dignity in Care: Everything You Need to Know

Fundamentally, we all want to be treated with respect and dignity. It is essential that people being looked after feel understood and supported, and have an active role in their own care.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) define dignity and respect as “making sure that people have privacy when they need and want it, treating them as equals and providing any support they might need to be autonomous, independent and involved in their local community.”

Dignity can be sustained within care by recognising a person’s strengths, ambitions and abilities, whilst working with them as an equal to ensure they are living a fulfilled life.

What Does Dignity in Care Involve?

Communication is crucial in creating an equal and respectful relationship. It is important to talk to patients in plain English, do not overcomplicate or patronise; some people may need more time to understand what you’re saying.

Try to consider ways of effectively communicating with people who have learning disabilities, sensory impairments or neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia or Alzheimer’s. Ensuring that the patient feels informed and confident in their care plan can help make them feel more comfortable and in control of their life.

Choice is another major factor in ensuring that patients have autonomy over their own life. Patients should feel empowered and ready to make an informed choice based on the information and advice that you provide. Information should not be manipulated or moulded, but instead portrayed in a way that is easy to understand and digest.

What Are the FREDA principles?

The FREDA principles were created to help care professionals understand and use the core values of dignity in care. The acronym stands for:

•          Fairness
•          Respect
•          Equality
•          Dignity
•          Autonomy

It is vital to remember these 5 human rights when treating an individual to ensure they remain happy and comfortable in care.

Ways to Promote Dignity in Care

Dignity in Care can be enacted through very basic acts that mean a lot. Below are some simple way to ensure your patients feel they are treated fairly.

Privacy

If your patient is asking for more privacy, it is important to listen and make that change. Be sure to always respect their personal space and possessions too.

Choice

Always involve the patient in any decisions that are to be made. This does not always relate to important healthcare issues. Many of us create our identity through how we dress, so allowing the patient to choose their clothing is one way to promote dignity.

Hygiene

Older people may need more support to maintain standards of hygiene that they are used to. This includes showering, oral hygiene, haircare and continence needs. Be sure to listen and respect the patients’ requests. For example, a female may not want to be washed by a male carer.

How Can Andway Help?

At Andway, we provide a range of products and services to help with your healthcare needs. Our service can assist you in creating personalised treatment plans, facilitating independence and supporting each patients’ needs.

For more advice, contact us now.