How Poetry Is Helping One Right at Home Client with Dementia

At Right at Home, we believe that truly person-centred care goes beyond routines. It unlocks potential, dignity, and joy. Across our network of UK franchises, our Dementia Support Programme is helping people rediscover themselves through meaningful activities..

One such example comes from our Nottingham office. Local Client Tony Robinson, 92, is using poetry to manage his Alzheimer’s diagnosis and inspire others living with dementia.

Tony, a former businessman from Keyworth, began experiencing symptoms five years ago. He was officially diagnosed in 2023. Like many people in his position, he sought ways to preserve his identity and communicate with those around him.

He found his outlet in poetry.

“Poetry keeps you in touch with words… and you can remember those words because they are your making – nobody else’s,” Tony says.

In a recent video produced by Nottingham-based filmmaker Sam Lindley, Tony recites a poem about his childhood. He shares how poetry has helped him unlock memories and express his emotions. The creative outlet has improved his well-being and helped him stay connected to his family and community.

Tony is supported by Right at Home Nottingham, one of many local offices providing expert dementia care through our tailored Dementia Support Programme; developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals. The programme uses proven methods to support memory, thinking skills, and overall well-being. It gives our teams the tools and confidence to support people living with dementia. This programme is one of the many features that makes Right at Home stand out in the homecare franchise sector.

“Our team can provide a tailored dementia support plan, using proven strategies to enhance wellbeing and reassurance for the person living with dementia.

“Our comprehensive guidance covers cognitive health and essential areas like nutrition, stress reduction, effective communication, memory support, and improved sleep. We also aim to replace misinformation with facts and cultivate a sense of hope.

“Tony has always been a social person, and poetry provides him with an outlet to express his emotions and life experiences through creative language. It has nourished his imagination and enabled him to engage with the world around him.”

Tony now plans to share his video with local groups to encourage others living with dementia to explore creative expression.

“Action is the vehicle, tenacity is your fuel. Don’t give in, and believe you can still do the things you love,” he says.

By combining compassionate care with clinical insight, our network enables people to live safely, happily, and independently at home. Sometimes that is far beyond what families believe is possible.

For those seeking a rewarding business with a strong purpose, a Right at Home franchise offers a chance to make a real difference in the lives of others. With comprehensive training, ongoing support, and innovative care programmes like our Dementia Support Programme, our franchise owners are empowered to lead teams that change lives.