Newsletter

Issue 003

Thinking Differently About Dementia 

Dementia Pathfinders partners with Agewell in the West Midlands to deliver an innovative project called 'Thinking Differently About Dementia' . Funded by the National Lottery for 3-years, a key objective of 'Thinking Differently About Dementia' is to establish two 'Meeting Centres' in Sandwell to provide post diagnosis support for people living with mild or moderate dementia.

 

'Thinking Differently About Dementia' is led by a a Project Co-ordinator, Melanie Charters and staffed by Dementia Wellbeing Advisers, Claire Williams and Debra Pierson and Dementia Support Worker, Faye White. Working alongside statutory and third sector partners, and in close collaboration with Dementia Navigators and Dementia Advisers from Sandwell Community Dementia Service, 'Thinking Differently About Dementia' seeks to strengthen support for people with dementia following a diagnosis of any kind of dementia, and provide additional information and support for their families, supporters and carers. 
 

For more information and to make a referral, contact Agewell on 0121 796 9333 or email: info@agewelluk.org.uk 

'OCNLR Level 2 and 3 Award in Awareness of Dementia'

 

The OCNLR ‘Award in Awareness of Dementia’ Levels 2 and 3 have been developed in partnership with Skills for Care. The qualifications forms part of a suite of qualifications in dementia care that have been designed to support government strategies to increase knowledge, understanding and skills in caring for people living with dementia.

The qualifications support the changing needs within the sector and are designed to develop dementia awareness and understanding amongst the frontline health and care practitioners with the aim of enhancing the quality of services provided to people living with dementia and their families.

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The programme is suitable for all those who are working with people living with dementia, for example as a dementia carer, care worker, healthcare assistant, support/key worker and many other roles.   

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More information

Dementia Conversations

This initiative offered by Dementia Pathfinders at Bowdon Vale Church and other locations, provides an opportunity for people interested in dementia and related matters, including those living with dementia, their carers and friends, to share experiences, gain knowledge and explore issues of belief, attitude and need.

 

Currently Dementia Conversations are offered on line.

Meetings are on the third Wednesday of each month at 7pm for an hour by Zoom.

 

For further information on how to join a Dementia Conversation please email info@dementiapathfinders.org

 

More information

Connecting with nature

Whatever our age and wherever we live, noticing the seasons and connecting with nature is good for our physical and mental health. Whether you live in the countryside, suburbs, or city centre, there are opportunities to enjoy nature with people living with dementia.

 

Here are some ideas that you can find on our marketplace:

 

At Home with the Seasons is a resource designed to encourage connection with the seasons. The resource is structured by season, with an opening section on ways to connect with nature whatever the time of year. In partnership with Story Chaplin, we have developed this resource especially with people living with dementia and carers in mind, and for people who may be less able to get out and about or travel far.

 

“The aim is to encourage enjoyment of the open air and exercise.

And on a rainy day, the booklet is there to aid the memory.”

Professor David Jolley

 

Garden Wonders Aquapaint, with five carefully chosen designs including: a blue bird, a rose bush, hedgehog, lawn mower and fresh vegetables, this Aquapaint™ product aims to prompt conversation about days spent in the garden. 

Spending time in nature can enhance mental wellbeing and relaxation for people with dementia, whilst helping them keep a level of independence. Best of all, when the water dries, the canvas will fade back to white ready to paint again! 

 

Summer Birds jigsaw puzzle, featuring an idyllic country scene with vibrant birds, comes to life in 13 pieces. Designed for people with dementia, this popular puzzle is sure to make hearts sing. Jigsaw puzzles are a favourite pastime for young and old, and for people with dementia, they can be especially beneficial. Apart from being a fun and engaging activity to enjoy with family and friends, completing puzzles can gently exercise the brain, benefit visual perception and provide a sense of satisfaction and pride upon completion.

 

 

At Home with the Seasons £9.95

 
More information
 

Garden Wonders Aquapaint £17.99

 
More information
 

Summer Birds Jigsaw £14.99

 
More information

Browse through our Market Place to discover the full range of activities and other products

 

If you would like to support our cause, please click on this link:

Dementia Pathfinders Golden Giving Thank you.

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