Namaste is a Hindu term meaning 'to honour the spirit within'
Namaste Care is a person-centered therapeutic approach which aims to promote improved quality of life for people in the later stages of dementia. Encouraging engagement in meaningful activities helps to provide enjoyment and comfort.
These activites may include:
- Offering gentle touch, for example through hand massage or hair brushing
- Listening to favourite music
- Reading favourite books and poems
- Art activities
- Playing games such as dominoes or cards
- Jigsaws
- Encouraging gentle movement
Namaste Care is delivered by fully trained volunteers. Sessions can take place in the person’s own home or in some cases a group session in the community or at St Cuthbert’s Hospice Living Well Centre may be suitable. A carer/family member must be present during Namaste home visits.
Our trained Namaste Volunteers will:
- Visit you regularly if home visits are agreed to provide Namaste Care
- Provide emotional support
- Signpost or refer you to additional support if required (For example the Hospice Admiral Nurse)
How to refer to The Namaste Care Service
St Cuthbert’s Hospice provides Namaste Care to people living with advanced dementia who are registered with a GP in Durham or Chester- le- Street.
Our Namaste Coordinator will:
- Carry out an initial assessment
- If Namaste Care is appropriate, match you with a volunteer to provide Namaste Care in your own home or potentially invite you to try a Namaste group (depending on availability)
- Signpost or refer you to additional support if required (for example Hospice Admiral Nurse)
Refer today
For further information please contact our Dementia Services Team on 0191 386 1170
Call for Volunteers
Meet Neetu, Chris and Veronica some of our amazing Namaste Care Volunteers. Read their story here.
As Namaste Care is provided by trained volunteers we are always keen to welcome additional volunteers to the service. Volunteering for the Namaste Care Service is an opportunity to make a real positive difference to people living with advanced dementia and their families.
Previous experience is not essential, training will be provided.
To enquire about volunteering please contact our Volunteer Coordinator on 0191 374 6169 or email volunteers@stcuthbertshospice.com to register your interest.
