11.08.2023
The members of Ashford Place Dementia Cafe, who meet every Tuesday afternoon, from 2 – 4pm in the Mezzanine at Ashford Place have enjoyed a very busy and exciting year so far, from welcoming several new members to the group, to enjoying visits from Our Lady of Grace Infant School Choir and music sessions with popular singer and guitarist Alejandro who was joined by Ashford Place’s summer chefs trio Louis, George and trombone player Marcus. Enjoying music, singing and dancing with regular art activities and a very popular weekly poetry session led by Renee are all part of the wide range of inspiring and stimulating activities aimed at supporting member’s mental and physical wellbeing. Last week’s Café had a lovely surprise visit from Bobbie, a beautiful Golden Retriever and her handler Isobel, her friendly, gentle personality was both calming and mood enhancing to all present.
As wellbeing and taking care of one’s health is of paramount importance to those living with dementia and their carers the DeCafe team participated in Ashford Place’s Keeping Healthy project and delivers weekly health advice to members on topics ranging from living with diabetes, loneliness, sickle cell anaemia, shingles or haemochromatosis to advice on what to do if a fishbone gets stuck in your throat, or what to do in the event of a fall. The Green Hearts team (sponsored by Irish in Britain) delivered a very informative workshop on heart health in May and everyone had a free blood pressure check. Reminders re flu and booster vaccinations, knowing blood pressure and healthy sugar levels are also on the weekly menu.
Of course renewing and maintaining friendships, chatting and laughing is always encouraged as those attending also participate in a variety of activities ranging from maths puzzles, word games, quizzes, craft sessions with exercise, relaxation and meditation. Using essential oils such as lavender, frankincense, bergamot and eucalyptus to promote relaxation and reduce stress, anxiety and agitation is also practised weekly.
It goes without saying that the Café’s band of regular volunteers play an important role in the smooth running of activities. Vivienne leads the group through gentle exercises, Caty and Wayce lead the fun and dancing while Patsy ensures everyone gets a refreshing tea or coffee. Ann and Jana support art and crafts and Ann always ends sessions with a thoughtful reflection to support inner peace for the week ahead. Newest volunteer Jonathan sorts out everyone’s Dial-a ride journeys and he is so impressed by the friendliness and the fun at the Café that he promises to return for the long term.
The members of Ashford Place Dementia Café remember with affection and joy two of their regular members Denis RIP and Leonard i RIP who passed away recently. Sympathy is extended to Helen and Valerie and their families.
Of course living with a Dementia diagnosis is challenging but availing of the support, advice and socialising opportunities in a friendly and familiar place which is offered by Ashford Place Dementia Café can encourage members to maintain a positive attitude to both their physical and mental wellbeing. Those who attend the Ashford Place café have adopted as a motto the famous Dylan Thomas lines –
You can support our dementia café by making a donation.
For more information, please contact Michele by email [email protected]
