by John Prince
September is World Alzheimer’s Month, and care teams have been available in Withernsea to offer advice and support to people living with the condition and those who care for them.
Shores Homecare held a dementia awareness day at the Shores Centre ahead of World Alzheimer’s Day, which was on Monday, September 21.
Anyone seeking further help for themselves or someone they love were able to come along and speak with professionals, and try out some hi-tech gadgets.
Skylar the therapy dog was waiting for a pat and a stroke, and talks and presentations were given to share practical advice and reassure people that however worried they may be, they are not alone.
A giant interactive table and virtual headsets were available to use to show how modern technology can help with dementia, which as yet has no cure.
Dementia is an umbrella term for a progressive decline in brain function caused by different underlying diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia that damage the brain in different ways.
However, there are certain medicines and other treatments that can help with symptoms.
Chloe Hart, the strategic manager for Shores Homecare and co-general manager of the centre, said: “The dementia awareness day came together from a networking event over 18 months ago with health and social care professionals in Holderness.
“We needed to celebrate the services we already have here and let the community know what’s available to them – whether it’s early help, memory tests, support or end-of-life care for those living with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other types of dementia.
“We have fundraised for a virtual dementia bus that’s in the car park, and we also received funding from East Riding’s DiFEY fund which has provided the virtual table. Recreo have supported us with the VR headsets.
“The Alzheimer’s Society has also contributed funding to make the day happen. We’ve got keynote speakers from Holderness Health, the Proactive Care Team and the Social Prescribers.
“The LPA services from East Riding are here, so if somebody doesn’t have a lasting power of attorney, it’s really important that they can explore that. We also have the HEY Smile Foundation supporting us.
“We are doing memory tests, so people can come and check their memory. The virtual table focuses on brain health with tests and quizzes.
“It’s really important to support the individuals that are looking after their loved ones. It’s realising what is out there, and how they are able to experience what it’s like living with dementia and to have conversations.
“It can prepare others and help understand a little bit more.
“It’s a cruel disease but we want people to know that there is support.”
Sue Wood, from Burstwick, who has a family history of dementia and is living with it herself, said: “I just found it nice to be able to talk to people, and know that they’re doing the same sort of things as me.
“I was used to it really because my mother had dementia and my grandmother had it so it’s in the family. As I got older I thought I bet I get it as well, and I did. But at the moment it seems to be OK.
“It’s good having a thing like this on your doorstep within reach. There are lots of people out there to help, and lots of things you can do.”
Shores Homecare says it offers inclusive and individual care and support packages to people within the community who are limited in their ability, while upholding the principles of independence.