In addition to our twice weekly cafés we aim to enhance the lives of those with dementia as well as their family carers in a number of other ways.
In 2016 with the help of the local community and businesses we developed a Dementia Friendly Garden in an area of waste ground at the back of the churchyard – The Trevor Brown Happiness Garden. The garden has been much improved in subsequent years and now provides an accessible, relaxing space for quiet reflection surrounded by nature. The garden is maintained by a small team of our volunteers.
A useful therapy that can be undertaken to stimulate those with dementia is to reminisce about times past. Talking about those events, books, toys and articles from the individual’s past in an enjoyable but structured way can generate much pleasure and improve the quality of life for both those with the dementia and their carers. We have regular visits by trained professionals who use various techniques to guide those with dementia through their past experiences.
Music is also a wonderful a therapy for those living with dementia and so as well as our regular monthly Singing Sessions we also bring in musical entertainment to our cafés from time to time such as the Ukulele Band and the Ashleigh School Choir:
Every year we will organise visits away from Wymondham for our members – this is a chance in particular for carers to be away from their usual surroundings for a few hours. The visits include all transport requirements and are fully supported by our trained volunteers and organisers.
Recent trips have included:
A return trip with cream tea to Dereham on the Mid-Norfolk Railway.
A trip on a cruiser through the Norfolk Broads.
Trips to Garden Centres including the Bressingham Garden Centre are always popular.
Or how about a local trip in a vintage or classic car.
Other entertainment we provide includes:
Every year we have a Christmas Party – gifts from Santa; singing and dancing with entertainment from local musicians
Tea dances and Socials
