Amman Valley dementia care scheme launch (From South Wales Guardian)

Amman Valley dementia care scheme launch

12:00pm Thursday 14th March 2013 in News

THE Amman Valley’s leading dementia care charity is to launch an innovative scheme aimed at improving people’s understanding of the disease in a bid to help sufferers lead full and active lives.

Hafan Dementia Care’s Dementia Friendly Community project is looking to educate shop workers, service providers and the general public to recognise the disease and its symptoms and learn how they can help sufferers overcome the minor obstacles they face every day.

“People with dementia can sometimes become confused and frustrated by things many of us take for granted,” said Hafan Dementia Care’s Dorothy MacDonald.

“This can make even the simplest day-to-day activities, such as going to the shop or catching a bus, quite difficult and daunting.

“If shop workers or bus drivers are able to recognise the signs they will be able to help the individual and keep them calm without turning minor problems into major issues.”

The charity is to run a series of workshops – either in stages or a single three-hour block – in which people can become registered dementia friends.

“People of any age can come along,” said Dorothy, “and we will explain some of the problems people with dementia face when they are out in the community.

“The training days would be useful to people working in shops, libraries and the like and we hope employers would be keen to send their staff along.

“Helping people with dementia remain independent helps boost self-esteem and dignity and teaches people that the disease does not mean the end of a normal life.”

An introduction meeting is due to be held at Ebeneser Chapel, Baptist Road, Ammanford at 12 noon on March 27.

All are welcome.

Call Hafan Dementia Care on 01269 591787 or 01269 823491.