Dr Zaid Aldin, a consultant vascular specialist who runs Harley Street Vein Clinic in London, explains why he believes good patient care has similarities to looking after a loved one with dementia.
I am fortunate enough to not have a personal connection to dementia, but it is a condition I read about on a regular basis. It seems more and more frequently I hear about someone being diagnosed with a form of dementia. Most people will have heard of the shocking news of former actress Barbara Windsor being diagnosed with the condition. The actress was diagnosed in 2014 but she and her husband Scott Mitchell only made a public announcement about her diagnosis recently.
I see many patients in my clinic of all ages and backgrounds. Some of my patients are nervous and even a bit fearful when they come to see us for treatment. Even though most of our procedures are virtually pain-free, some people still come to us feeling unsure about what they are about to experience. Fortunately, we’re very skilled at making sure they feel comfortable. The relationship we have with our patients is very important. I imagine I probably have treated patients who have been living with dementia. There have been occasions when I’ve seen signs of the condition in patients. I do my very best to make them feel reassured and to treat them with respect. The health sector is not always set up for this, and sometimes a person with dementia who is admitted to hospital can be more confused and disorientated.
The expression ‘having a good bedside manner’ is very important in the medical profession. Taking the time to make patients feel valued, supported and cared for is vital. It’s not just about giving a patient the treatment they require. Any surgeon, specialist or medical professional should take the time to show compassion towards their patients.
I can imagine that caring for a loved one with dementia must be very similar. When a person has dementia, they may be fearful and nervous. Imagine how you would feel if you woke up each day not knowing what stage of your life you’re at, what you need to do that day and even which family members are dead or alive. You may not even know your age or whether you’re working or retired. I can only imagine how frightening that must feel. When a person with dementia is admitted to hospital, often they may not know where they are or why they are there, so staff should take this on board and do their very best to reassure the person and keep them calm. This is not easy of course but it’s important.
As a medical professional, I always listen to my patients’ concerns, reassure them where I can and I’m happy to repeat any information they may not have fully understood. I believe these qualities are essential when caring for a person with dementia. Patience is key. If you can demonstrate those qualities as a carer, even on a difficult day, then you’re doing a great job.
More information
Dr Zaid Aldin is a consultant vascular and interventional radiologist specialising in treating vascular disease. Harley Street Vein Clinic provides treatments for varicose veins and offers a holistic approach to treatments, tailoring procedures to provide long-term results. Treatment includes a full consultation with a consultant vascular specialist, the latest and safest non-surgical procedures and access to state-of-the-art facilities. For more information on Harley Street Vein Clinic and its range of treatments, visit https://www.harleystreetveinclinic.com