Citation
(2011), "Survey shows Scots are unfamiliar with their parents", Quality in Ageing and Older Adults, Vol. 12 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/qaoa.2011.55912baa.004
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Survey shows Scots are unfamiliar with their parents
Article Type: News and events From: Quality in Ageing and Older Adults, Volume 12, Issue 2
Scots are being urged to reconnect with their parents, as a survey from Bupa care homes shows that most people know very little about their parents’ likes, dislikes and memories which could become important in caring for them as they become older.
The study revealed that even if we speak to our parents every day, most of us do not know our parents as well as we think:
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About 81 percent of Scots did not know whether their father had a pet as a child.
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About 80 percent cannot name their mother or father’s childhood best friend.
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About 48 percent did not know what food their parents dislike most.
Sharing our memories and reminiscing with our families is really important and is absolutely vital when helping people living with dementia. With around 72,250 people estimated to be living with dementia in Scotland this year it is becoming increasingly important to understand loved ones’ past life, their experiences and achievements.
“The more we understand about a person: from their interests to their likes and dislikes, the better the care we’ll be able to provide for them.” said Dr Graham Stokes, Director of Dementia Care, Bupa Care Services. “A person with dementia might not be able to communicate who they are and what they want, and so it’s vital that those looking after them can anticipate their needs by knowing as much about them and their life as possible”.
Visit: www.bupa.co.uk/ your-memories-matter for more information and tips on collecting memories.