Dementia self-help group launched
A self-help group initiative has been set up to see if people with dementia can benefit by sharing their experiences and tips. Housing 21, in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation, has launched the support groups for people living in its extra care and sheltered housing schemes in London.
Around 30 people, consisting of residents, relatives and staff, attended a celebratory event to launch the third of the self help groups that form the project. The party was themed as spring and new beginnings, so a selection of spring flowers adorned the tables and guests enjoyed a variety of fresh fruit. Music was provided by Jimmy Beckley, a local musician, who also provides a voice and percussion workshop for the group.
Cindy Glover, who facilitates the group said: “The residents attending the self-help groups have varying degrees of memory problems. The idea is that they will share with one another their thoughts on how best to cope with dementia. We are already seeing a very positive affect on people’s mental health and wellbeing and in improving social contacts.”
The groups meet on a weekly basis to address a range of practical issues about living with dementia. Among the many and varied topics looked at during the sessions are understanding and coping with confusion and forgetfulness, how staff and family can help, planning for the future, keeping healthy and mentally active and additional sources of help and information.
ENDS
For further media information, please contact Wendy Gornicki, PR & Information Officer, Housing 21 on 0370 192 4338 or email wendy.gornicki@housing21.co.uk
Housing 21’s mission is to promote independence and choice for older people through quality care, health and housing services. It provides around 130,000 hours of care each week and manages around 19,000 sheltered and extra care apartments, providing services to more than 31,000 service users.
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