Dementia is affecting more and more people across the UK as life expectancy increases and across Birmingham there are many residential homes and caregivers providing support to loved ones who are living with the condition.
Care for people with dementia is multifaceted. It takes a lot of support and love, while there are a variety of different approaches and methods of care used by dementia care services to slow the progression of the condition and ensure people live the best life they possibly can.
One way to do this is through community groups. They can play a vital role in supporting people with dementia, providing them with emotional support, practical assistance and, importantly, social engagement.
Across the city there are a wealth of different types of groups both people living with dementia and carers can join, many of which are promoted on council and charity websites, on social media and in local community centres. So, if you’re supporting someone with dementia, here are five community group options that could be of help…
Support Groups
Support groups are a good place to start, particularly for people who have just been diagnosed and living with the early stages of dementia. Seeking support from people going through the same challenges can be really instrumental and offer a safe space to share thoughts and feelings as well as getting the encouragement they need to tackle dementia head on.
The camaraderie of such groups can help relieve things like loneliness and isolation, while even carers can connect with other carers and create a real, strong family-like unit.
Memory Cafes & Clubs
There are many memory cafes across the West Midlands that allow people to gather and enjoy a range of activities. They’re there to stimulate memories and you can even find different groups to discuss a wealth of topics.
The informal setting encourages engagement and removes judgement, while again it’s a place in which caregivers can also connect with others, relax and enjoy the social setting.
Education and Informational Groups
Knowledge is power and again for those people who are at the early stages of dementia, as well as caregivers, educational and informational groups can be really useful for understanding dementia more.
These groups can help with managing symptoms, communication techniques, financial and legal planning as well as much more, supplying people with the information they need to tackle the condition with confidence and resilience.
Exercise and Wellness Programmes
Exercise is an important part of dementia care and visiting a class can combine it with social interaction, both of which are vital for maintaining cognitive functioning. Activities such as yoga, dance and nature walks can help slow the effects of dementia down, through both the physical and mental benefits.
There are many classes and groups across Birmingham that are tailored to the needs of people with dementia and they really can be life changing.
Volunteer Programmes
Finally, individuals with dementia can also get out in the community as part of volunteer programmes. It’s a great way to socially engage with others, while also boosting the likes of self-esteem and purpose. It brings people together of all backgrounds, and getting involved with art projects, reading clubs or essentially any volunteer programme that is safe and of interest to the person is a really good way to boost mental health and, again, slow the effects of dementia longer term.
Look at local community centres and across social media where you’ll find many volunteer programmes in your local area, which can quickly become a part of a loved ones routine and something they regularly look forward to taking up.