Unit 40
Assignment 2
By Bailey Eede
Learner number: 70062623

A case study of Benjamin Jones (BJ)

Benjamin Jones (BJ), a 72 year old man who has been diagnosed with dementia has to have frameworks and legislations in place which are used to help individuals with dementia. Many dementia patients are often susceptible to abuse, either financially, physically or emotionally. This case study will be carrying out a review on BJ and assessing the different ways he can be supported and protected. There are laws and mental health acts in place to ensure this, this case study will work through them and project what they do for BJ, how they support him and what effects they will have on his life. This case study will also go through the symptoms BJ might be experiencing and the many different approaches in caring and teamwork that will be put in place to help BJ.
BJ has been diagnosed with the most common form of dementia – Alzheimer’s disease. In the UK alone it is predicted that there will be around 520,000 people suffering from Alzheimer’s by 2015, all of which will experience similar symptoms at different intensities (Alzheimer’s Society, 2014). Dementia usually comes with age, and as BJ is 72 he is above the average age of dementia patients making him more likely to develop it. One in fourteen people above the age of 65 are diagnosed with dementia. BJ is likely to experience a range of different symptoms and it is possible that he will deny them as he loses grip on his life and control of his own body. This can mean his character may change, he may become more frustrated and possibly aggressive, this is a cause for concern as carers and those around him are potentially at risk of abuse as BJ struggles to maintain his frustration. Memory loss is also a strong symptom in dementia; this can be the most frustration of all. It appears BJ is already showing signs of memory loss as he believes he still works in his last employment (B&Q). This is where his mental health was brought to attention and questioned. Memory loss can also include forgetting people’s names and places, as well as important dates (such as appointments) and recent events. Mood swings are also a massive issue as BJ can also experience times of extreme sadness, anger, and frustration; they can sometimes even be scared of their lack of control over themselves. It is important that any carers, family or friends are there to reassure them and protect them from themselves. Motor skills may also be affected as parts of their brain are damaged, meaning extra care is needed. Other symptoms can include:
Inability to make decisions and poor judgement.
Unwillingness to change or adapt to their new lifestyles.
Increasing confusion and disorientation.
Delusions and hallucinations.
Inability to sleep well.
Difficult to move around and eat/drink without assistance.
Unintentional passing of urine and considerable weight loss.

P3:
BJ must be protected under many different acts, laws, legislations and frameworks. One of which is The Mental Health Act of 2007. This helps ensure the safety of people suffering with mental health issues –including those with dementia. The Mental Health Act or MHA consists of over 100 sections, each explaining how matters involving those with a poor mental health may be resolved. Some of which explains the hospital and carer’s ability to detain BJ under the mental health act and have him sectioned for assessment in the hospital. This however is only if doctors and the persons next of kin agree, they are then able to relieve them of their liberty and hold them for assessment for up to 28 days. Patients may also be detained if it becomes apparent that they will not take their medication. This can then be extended in 6 month intervals and then renewed again until the patients contained at a year at a time. A person who is sectioned in a hospital is often under close watch and not allowed to leave. An AMHP (Approved Mental Health Professional) and the