Local Veteran’s Journey Highlights Specialist Dementia Support In Solihull
A specialist care home in Solihull is highlighting how “life story” care is transforming the lives of those with the most complex needs living in their community.
Blythe Rose Dementia Care – part of the Macc Care Group – has highlighted the journey of one of its residents, Judith, to show the impact of “life story” care. Judith, a former Physical Training Instructor in the Women’s Royal Naval Service, moved to the Solihull home after her condition progressed following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2021.
When Judith first arrived at Blythe Rose, she had lost her ability to communicate verbally and often experienced periods of distress. Recognising her background as a Navy instructor and her lifelong interest in fitness, the team at Blythe Rose adapted her daily routine to focus on movement. Staff replaced traditional schedules with regular garden walks and sensory massage therapy to help her feel more at ease.
For many generalist care settings, such complex communication can be difficult to manage. At Blythe Rose, the team focused on Judith’s history as a Physical Training Instructor to rebuild her sense of safety. Recognising her lifelong need for movement, staff replaced rigid routines with unstructured garden walks and sensory massage therapy.
The specialist intervention at Blythe Rose became particularly vital during a period of significant clinical decline in late 2024. Judith faced a complex combination of full body oedema and severe insomnia which required the home to coordinate an intensive multidisciplinary response.
While external investigations at the hospital were inconclusive, the nursing team at Blythe Rose worked alongside specialist consultants to manage her symptoms through meticulous medication adjustments. By reducing treatments thought to be driving agitation and introducing carefully monitored protocols for her physical health, the team successfully stabilised her condition. This expert clinical oversight was paired with consistent one to one support from carers, who utilised nature walks and sensory activities to redirect her distress.
Today, Judith enjoys a calmer life filled with music from the 1970s and 1980s. While her needs remain complex, the tailored support at Blythe Rose ensures she can live with the dignity and respect she deserves.
Bhav Amlani, Managing Director of Macc Care, said:
“Judith’s journey is a powerful reminder of why specialist dementia provision is more vital than ever. With one million people now facing this diagnosis across the UK, we must move away from generic care models, and by understanding Judith’s identity as a proud veteran and athlete, our team has been able to reduce her distress and help her find peace in a supportive environment. It is about providing a home where residents feel safe and valued.”
