Staffordshire and Cheshire based care provider, Lovett Care, has recently demonstrated commitment to resident safety with the deployment of Dechoker devices across all 3 of their care homes, along with specialist training for all staff.

The Dechoker Airway Clearance Device (ACD) has already made a significant impact across the sector administering choking first aid to individuals with limited mobility, as is often the case for many of the people in elderly care.

Operations Director, Debbie Baker, said: “Choking is a very real risk for some individuals over 65, which is increased by the presence of certain health conditions such as COPD and dementia.

 “We are committed to investing money, time and resources into lifesaving technologies that help us in keeping residents safe and well.”

Dechoker devices are now available across Lovett Care’s portfolio of residential homes, as well as onboard the minibus. Lovett Care also took advantage of Dechoker’s Train the Trainer option, allowing for all staff to be trained in using the device.

CEO of Dechoker UK, Matt Oakley, commented: “We were delighted to work with Lovett Care, both by deploying Dechoker devices and providing additional training.

 Recognising the increased risk of choking and how developments in equipment can mitigate risk to both residents and staff, the management team at Lovett have embraced their introduction by providing both hands-on training and eLearning to all staff.”

According to data from the Office for National Statistics, between 2014 and 2018 there were 478 choking related deaths in adult care across England and Wales, with the most common cause being food.

Lovett Care provides residential, memory, respite and day care for individuals aged 65 and over, including specialist dementia care at Twyford House Luxury Care Centre in Alsager, Hilton House Care Home, and Goldendale House Care Home in Stoke on Trent.