Dementia Friends session for the Sunshine Club in Bedgrove

What is a Dementia Friends session?

A delightful group of ladies, all in their eighties and one in her nineties, attended our most recent Dementia Friends information session at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Bedgrove, Aylesbury.

Organised through the Alzheimer’s Society, these sessions are aimed at improving understanding about dementia and reducing the stigma that often surrounds the disease. Five key messages form the backbone of these talks:

1. Dementia is not a natural part of ageing

2. Dementia is caused by diseases of the brain

3. Dementia is not just about losing your memory

4. It is possible to live well with dementia

5.There’s more to the person than the dementia

The last two messages stress the importance of working on the positives. It IS possible to live well with dementia and there IS more to the person than the dementia. Far too often we hear people referring to someone suffering with dementia or stressing what a dreadful disease it is. Whilst acknowledging that it can be extremely challenging living with and/or caring for someone who has dementia, it is important to focus on ways to improve quality of life for the person and those around them.

Early signs of dementia

Most people living with dementia are over 65, however younger people do get diagnosed too. The first sign that something is not quite right is usually short-term memory loss – asking the same question again and again, losing concentration or getting muddled in the middle of a complex task. Other signs may include changes of personality, becoming clumsy or developing anxiety and not wanting to go out.

One of the ladies who came to the talk in Bedgrove mentioned that she thinks she may be getting dementia. It is important, if you are worried about yourself, to make an appointment to see your GP. Early diagnosis is key to getting good support.

Supporting someone who has dementia

It is especially important to be aware that, while someone living with dementia will have reduced cognitive abilities, their ability to experience emotions is as strong as ever. It doesn’t take much to realise that this can be extremely frustrating, frightening and upsetting. While someone with dementia may not retain the facts about a recent conversation or event, the accompanying emotions will stay with them much longer. It is always worth making time to visit someone you know who is living with dementia and it would probably mean a great deal to them if you were able to take them out for the day.

Companionship visits

As Dementia Friends ambassadors, we are keen to spread the word and increase awareness and understanding about dementia to local groups in and around Aylesbury.

If you are interested in booking or attending a free Dementia Friends session, please get in touch.

If you are looking for support for someone living with dementia, we have a team of carers who can help. Please get in touch to find out more. 

#Dementia Friends

#Alzheimer’s Society

#Dementia Adventure