The Grand Opening Of MacBride

29.10.24

On October 15th, The Fleet Care Home proudly celebrated the grand opening of its newest addition, the MacBride Dementia Community, a thoughtfully designed, purpose-built 15-bed unit tailored to the needs of individuals with mild to moderate dementia. The opening ceremony welcomed local dignitaries, stakeholders, charities, families, and dementia care professionals who gathered to mark this major advancement in specialised care. This new space provides respite and permanent dementia care for individuals in the South Hams community, underscoring The Fleet’s commitment to enhancing the lives of its residents and their families through high-quality, compassionate support.

A Celebration of Community, Connection, and Innovation

The grand opening allowed guests to explore this newly completed space and experience the features that make MacBride a standout addition to The Fleet’s care offerings. During the event, attendees, including local officials and dementia care advocates had the opportunity to engage with residents, view the purpose-built spaces, and try out the interactive table. The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their appreciation for The Fleet’s commitment to providing resources that enrich residents’ lives and serve the local community.

This initiative brings important resources to South Hams families and offers a vital support system for individuals navigating dementia. For residents at The Fleet, the MacBride Community offers a newfound sense of belonging and independence, with every element designed to accommodate their needs. For families, MacBride provides peace of mind, knowing that their loved ones are in a safe, enriching environment where they receive care that goes above and beyond standard expectations.

A Thoughtfully Designed Dementia Care Environment

Situated on the third floor of The Fleet Care Home, the MacBride Dementia Community is the result of careful planning and consultation to create an environment that promotes comfort, safety, and engagement. The unit features 15 spacious en-suite bedrooms, each equipped with modern amenities and tailored to the needs of dementia residents, creating a familiar, homely setting. In addition to the private rooms, the MacBride Community has an exclusive dining area where residents can enjoy meals in a quieter, more intimate environment, and a dedicated activity space to foster social interaction and mental stimulation.

Central to the unit’s mission is creating a supportive environment that fosters independence and offers meaningful opportunities for engagement. Every detail of the design, from layout to furniture selection, was chosen to accommodate the needs of residents with dementia, making navigation easier and reducing potential sources of confusion. The physical setting is paired with a robust care approach that emphasizes both dignity and engagement, helping residents to live fulfilling lives within a secure, comforting space.

Skilled, Dedicated Care for Every Resident

Under the guidance of Unit Lead Sarah Pinhorne, MacBride is staffed by a highly trained, multidisciplinary team that includes carers, nurses, and activity coordinators, all of whom bring expertise and compassion to dementia care. Each team member has undergone specialised dementia training, which equips them to manage the unique needs and challenges that dementia may present. From assistance with daily activities to managing individualised care plans, the staff at MacBride are committed to offering both exceptional care and meaningful companionship to each resident.

Enhancing Quality of Life with Innovative Technology

A standout feature of the MacBride Dementia Community is its use of advanced technology to improve resident engagement. The new digital interactive table an adaptable, portable touchscreen device provides endless possibilities for mental stimulation and social interaction. Connected to the internet and loaded with thousands of apps, the table offers residents access to diverse activities such as digital jigsaw puzzles, card games, and music quizzes. Residents can also use the table to watch films, browse photos, and even stream classic shows on platforms like YouTube.

With built-in camera and microphone capabilities, the interactive table enables video calling, providing a way for residents to stay in touch with loved ones, even if they’re far away. The technology has proven to be a favourite among residents, who enjoy using it individually as well as in group settings. By offering a stimulating, interactive resource, The Fleet is helping residents maintain cognitive skills, foster connections, and engage in activities they love, essential components of dementia care that positively impact mental and emotional well-being.

A Continuing Commitment to Holistic, Resident-Focused Care

The Fleet Care Home’s holistic approach to care goes beyond addressing the physical needs of residents it considers their emotional, social, and cognitive wellbeing. Events like the MacBride opening, with its community-oriented approach, provide an important way for residents to feel connected to the world beyond the care home’s walls. By integrating specialised environments, advanced technology, and a compassionate care team, The Fleet offers residents the chance to enjoy each day fully, regardless of the challenges they may face.

The opening of the MacBride Dementia Community represents a meaningful expansion in The Fleet’s mission to support the evolving needs of the South Hams community. As residents settle into this new, supportive environment, The Fleet looks forward to seeing MacBride become a place where individuals with dementia feel understood, respected, and empowered.