Reconnect: Beyond Specialist Dementia Care – The Steele’s story

Lawrence Steele, 82, first moved into Middleton Park Lodge’s specialist dementia community, Reconnect, in April 2024. After being unable to settle and absconding from his previous care homes, the Steele family sought a dementia-specialist home for their beloved husband, father and uncle.

Reconnect is our highly specialised, innovative approach to dementia care. Our Reconnect communities have been thoughtfully designed to empower and enable people who live with dementia to lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.

Almost a year on, Lawrence’s wife, Eveline, and his two nieces, Maureen and Irene, spoke to us about the positive transformation they have seen in Lawrence and how the team at Middleton Park Lodge has not only supported them, but has become a part of their extended family.

Lawrence and Eveline have been fortunate to share 62 wonderful years of marriage. The couple fell in love in their late teens and married in their early twenties, remaining inseparable ever since. They have a loving family, with three children, eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren, all of whom they love spending time with.

Eveline shared that she first noticed subtle changes in Lawrence's behaviour, which eventually led them to see their doctor. ‘It was hard to pinpoint exactly when Lawrence’s dementia began,’ she explained. ‘At first, I noticed small signs, like how he started sleeping more than usual.’  She also mentioned moments when he would stare blankly into space. ‘There were times when he didn’t recognise us, and then, just a moment later, he would seem fine. It took us a while to understand what was happening, but eventually, we saw our doctor, who diagnosed Lawrence with dementia.’

Eveline continued, ‘Lawrence knew exactly what was happening to him and that he had dementia, and it was an emotional moment for us. We cried together. Christmas 2021 was especially difficult; his condition deteriorated quickly, and within six weeks, he became very aggressive and was nothing like himself. We had to make the difficult decision to move him into a care home so he could receive 24/7 care.’

As Lawrence’s dementia progressed and general nursing homes could no longer meet his needs, the Steeles sought a dementia-specialist care home in the Leeds area and came across Middleton Park Lodge. ‘My son Mark persuaded me to visit the home, and we were blown away with what we saw.’

Paulina Drzewiecka, Home Manager, recalls meeting Eveline and Mark for the first time when they visited the home before Lawrence was admitted: ‘They were worried about whether we could manage Lawrence's condition, especially after being turned away from several homes in the region. They were scared they wouldn’t find a suitable place for him. I reassured them that we would accommodate Lawrence. I explained that we already had residents living with advanced dementia in our Reconnect community, where we successfully manage distress reactions and aid people living with dementia to live happy and fulfilled lives.’

The people Reconnect supports are finding it increasingly difficult to secure permanent care, often resulting in long hospital stays or placements in homes that cannot provide suitable care. Many people coming to live in our Reconnect communities have experienced frequent distress, which may have been managed with medication. At Orchard, we believe that everyone deserves a meaningful life. Our focus is on bringing joy to the people who live in our homes while reducing the distress they may have experienced previously.

Our Reconnect communities have been carefully designed to feel homely and welcoming, avoiding the traditional ‘care home’ atmosphere. We’ve created interior and exterior spaces that feel normal, with adaptations that support residents in maintaining their independence wherever possible. You can expect to find laundry rooms, gardening and DIY rooms, games rooms, kitchens, and comfortable lounges. We encourage residents to use these spaces as and when they choose, just as they would have in their own homes, fostering a sense of inclusion, choice, and meaningful occupation.

Upon meeting Lawrence, Paulina recalls: "He was very quiet, he displayed distress reactions such as anger and mood swings. He was withdrawn, uninterested in conversation, and didn’t want to go out.

‘In time, this changed dramatically! We worked with Lawrence, his family, and our specialist team to create a personalised care plan centred around his background, likes, dislikes, passions, and hobbies. We learned a great deal about his past, his career, and his family life, which helped us tailor our care to meet his needs and preferences, helping him feel safe and comfortable.’

Lawrence, described by his family as a "keep-busy man," has always been very active and enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies, from shooting and fishing to arts, crafts, dancing, and singing. Eveline said, ‘He’s always been on the go, keeping busy, so it’s nice to see him enjoying activities he once loved here and staying occupied.’

Faith also plays an important role in Lawrence’s life, and he can now participate in church services at the local church every week if he wishes.

It’s clear that Lawrence has fully embraced life at Middleton Park Lodge, enjoying everything it has to offer – from visits to the local community and shopping trips to White Rose Shopping Centre to participating in home-organised activities and even going on day trips to Scarborough to enjoy seaside fish and chips. While these activities may seem small, they help Lawrence stay connected to the lifestyle he once enjoyed.

Eveline said, ‘I’m so happy he’s here because I’ve noticed a real improvement in him. His personality is back – on good days, he’s joking, laughing, and Lawrence has that mischievous smile we all love.’

Lawrence has truly settled into his new home. His niece, Irene, said, ‘He hasn’t once told us that he wants to leave and come home. He seems really settled and happy living here.’ Maureen added ‘Yes, he’s not once mentioned leaving – which he used to say every time we’d visit at his other places. I think he knows Middleton Park Lodge is his home.’

The family-focused care at Middleton Park Lodge has not only helped Lawrence but has also become an integral part of the Steeles’ support system, creating a strong connection with the extended family. ‘Everyone makes you feel so welcome. They have become part of our extended family. I was never a hugger, but I spend a good 10 minutes hugging everyone when I come in on a morning.’ Eveline explained.

Eveline bravely spoke to us about some of the challenges they’ve faced as a family, explaining that although Lawrence has lived with dementia for over five years, this is the first time she’s allowed herself to fully process the emotions surrounding his diagnosis. ‘Lawrence was always the strong one, but when we received his diagnosis, I had to be strong for him and our family. I think I’m only just coming to terms with everything now that I know he’s in a safe place,’ she said.

She went on to add, ‘I’m just so grateful that he’s in a good place. It’s like choosing a second home, isn’t it? We’re not living together, but we are. As long as he’s settled, happy, and healthy, that’s all that matters to me.’

Eveline described Middleton Park Lodge as ‘a homely atmosphere, and I think that’s exactly what they need.’ Irene agreed, saying, ‘It’s so different here, with all the outings and activities.’ Maureen echoed, ‘Yes, it’s much more like home here.’

The Steeles' story is a powerful example of how personalised, person-centred care can lead to profound, positive change. Thanks to the amazing Reconnect team at Middleton Park Lodge, Lawrence is now able to enjoy his new home with the freedom he deserves, and the Steele family knows they can rely on the ongoing support of the care team at the home.

A huge thank you to the Steele family for their honesty and openness, and for allowing us to share their story!

Rated Good by CQC, Middleton Park Lodge Nursing Home offers specialist dementia care through our innovative Reconnect community and general nursing care. If you’re looking for a dementia-specialist care home with a highly-trained team in place, why not get in touch? Call 0161 653 5319 to speak to our friendly team!