CENTRING PERSONAL IDENTITY IN GERIATRIC CARE: IMPLEMENTING THE “ABOUT ME” FORM TO SUPPORT OLDER ADULTS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA
Abstract
Introduction: Dementia affects approximately 40% of hospitalised older adults (1-2) often leading to distress, communication challenges, and a decline in functional independence during admission (3). Although multidisciplinary team (MDT) geriatric care improves clinical outcomes,(4) the psychosocial and biographical needs of patients are overshadowed by immediate medical priorities.
To address this, our QIP implemented the “About Me” form, a document capturing individual preferences and daily routines, with the aim of increasing staff confidence and supporting more personalised, meaningful interactions with older adults living with dementia.
Methods: Conducted across five elderly care wards, the project involved 25 inpatients with dementia and 61 MDT members. Baseline staff confidence and use of the form were measured using a five-point Likert scale survey. A multi-modal implementation strategy followed, combining structured MDT teaching, short educational videos, visual prompts, and regular discussion during daily huddles. Post-intervention surveys reassessed staff confidence and uptake. Free-text responses underwent thematic analysis to explore barriers and the perceived value of this information in routine geriatric care.
Results: Before implementation, 29% of staff regularly used the form and 33% felt confident identifying triggers of distress. Time pressures (63%) and limited access to the form (11%) were the most frequently reported barriers. Thematic analysis revealed two key themes: “Knowing the person enables calmer, safer care” and “Systems, not motivation, limit good practice.” After implementation, form completion rose to 92%, and 88% of staff reported high confidence in anticipating and responding to individual needs. Staff also noted better continuity and a clearer shared understanding within the MDT.
Conclusion: Integrating the “About Me” form into geriatric inpatient workflows helps embed identity-focused, holistic care for older adults living with dementia. Effective implementation depends on routine use, clear ownership, and visible leadership support. When adopted consistently, this simple tool strengthens the compassionate, individualised approach central to high-quality geriatric medicine.
Comments
Great project
Very interesting and important topic - this is something we use on the geriatric wards in UHW. It would be great to see how we can implement this across other specialities who may be caring for patients with dementia, as they do not do this as well.