Together Dementia Support Friendship and Activity Group
A social group for individuals diagnosed with dementia.Benefit or reminiscing and memory groups
Talking about the past often rekindles happy memories and positive feelings which can have an immediate effect on an individual’s mood. Reminiscence helps older people have an increased sense of self-worth, personal identity and empowerment. It encourages sociability and communication which can lead to a better understanding of the individual, friendships or stronger family ties.
Location
Clifford Hilditch Court
7 Claude St,
Manchester
M8 5AW
Project team
Together Dementia Support
buzz
Aim
buzz were approached by Together Dementia support as they wanted to set up a friendship and activity group in Crumpsall for individuals with dementia. They wanted some support around getting referrals, linking in to services who work with individuals with dementia and advertising the group. We have also been working together on the first day deciding that it would be good to have an open day for both carers, volunteers, staff and individuals with dementia to give a demonstration of what will be going on in the group. The aim of the group is to bring people with dementia together where they can connect and have fun.
Evaluation
The project started slowly but gained a number of members who attended the sessions regularly. The group is currently on hold due to COVID-19 however we are looking at ways that we can offer activities to the group members. The group will continue once it is safe to do so.
Strategic links to local/national policies
|
Benefit |
Policy |
|
Increased mental wellbeing |
|
|
Supporting older people and creating an age friendly city |
Taking Charge of our Health and Social Care in Greater Manchester (GMCA, 2015) Manchester Health and Wellbeing Strategy |
Research/evidence base
Melunsky, N., Crellin, N., Dudzinski, E., Orrell, M., Wenborn, J., Poland, F., Woods, B., Charlesworth, G. (2015). The experience of family carers attending a joint reminiscence group with people with dementia: A thematic analysis. Dementia, 14(6), 842–859.
Reminiscence Network Northern Ireland - Best Practice Manual: Creative Reminiscence and Life Story Work
Social Care Institute for Excellence - Reminiscence for people with dementia
Woods, B., O'Philbin, L., Farrell, E. M., Spector, A. E., Orrell, M. (2018) Reminiscence therapy for dementia. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Issue 3. Art. No.: CD001120.
Contact
Charlee Fitzgerald - buzz Neighbourhood Health Worker
Charlee.Fitzgerald@gmmh.nhs.uk
T: 07771805278
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"The patients really enjoy the [PARS] sessions and feel a real benefit from continuing to exercise in a supportive environment."
Janet, Respiratory Specialist Physiotherapist, MRI
