Dementia Friends Champion Helen Morris offers some thoughts on trying something new
I HAVE recently been involved in a programme that brings people living with dementia and their partner or adult child together as a group to learn new things and socialize.
The most inspiring moments were when the carers finished a peer group session and came in to see what we were up to, only to find the person they thought could no longer enjoy an activity playing table tennis, teaching a colleague to play dominoes or dancing to a fine reggae beat.
There were tears and astonishment and joy. And this has made me wonder if we expect too little from our loved ones with dementia and if taking a few chances to get out and about might result in some similar revelations.
So we are due a heatwave (well, I’m an optimist!). Think about venturing out to a local dance or the fun of the fair?
If going out is too much to start with, buy some table tennis bats, a ball and net and relive some happy childhood memories round your dining table. If anyone is a bit unsteady on their feet please make sure you’re the ball boy!
Or buy some large dominoes from Activities to Share http://www.activitiestoshare.co.uk/ and have some absorbing fun – maybe even teach the grandkids?
Meanwhile I really want to do more Dementia Friends sessions locally so if you are a member of a group please do call me on 07976 702171 or email helen@close-communications.com
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