What do I need to bring with me

  •  Power of Attorney documents (if you have this in place)
  • Your Getting To Know Me document (if you have one, otherwise the hospital can provide this)
  • Your prescribed medications
  • Hearing aids or spectacles (labelled if possible)
  • Comfortable clothing, nightwear, shoes and slippers
  • Toiletries
  • Small familiar items that will help you feel settled e.g. a photograph

How will I know who people are and how to find my way around?

  • A staff member will show you around the ward on admission
  • Every staff member has a name badge
  • Clear signs will help you find the toilet and shower room

Will staff know I have dementia and how to help support my individual needs?

  • Staff may not always be aware you have dementia. Telling staff you have dementia and what areas you have difficulty with, will enable them to better meet your specific needs.
  • All staff have access to dementia training programmes and resources. Some staff have specialist training to become a Dementia Champion and there is an Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Nurse Consultant who can provide additional help and advice.
  • A personal plan of care suited to your individual needs should be developed in partnership with you.
  • Completing a Getting To Know Me document can also help inform your plan of care and enable staff to understand your likes and dislikes, your normal routine, what may be upsetting for you and how staff can make you feel at ease.

Will my family and friends be able to visit?

  • Staff recognise that maintaining contact with close friends and family is often important to people whilst they are in hospital.
  • Please check with staff on the ward what the current visiting arrangements are. If your family and friends are not able to visit in person, every ward has access to video-calling facilities or telephones.

What should I do if I have any concerns about my care?

  • There are standards that support and drive quality care for people with dementia in general hospitals but if you have any concerns you should speak to a member of staff as soon as possible. If you don’t feel comfortable doing so, ask a friend or relative if they can help or ask to be put in touch with advocacy services.
  • Use the Care Opinion hospital feedback system to let people know what was good or not so good about your stay and how you think things can be made better.