09.02.2023
Last Tuesday the members of Ashford Place Dementia Café opened their afternoon session by singing and dancing along to Tony Christie’s hit ‘Is this the way to Amaarillo’. Tony Christie has recently revealed that he has had a diagnosis of dementia, however he has spoken of his determination to remain positive following this and he continues to record new songs and plans a UK music tour. His tenacity is proving to be an inspiration to others with a similar diagnosis.
Keeping positive and enjoying a wide variety of activities from singing and dancing, to completing Maths and language problems, art and craft sessions as well as exercise and relaxation are always on the menu at the Tuesday sessions from 2 – 4 pm.
Many visitors describe coming to the cafe as the highlight of their week, and they always enjoy visitor led sessions ranging from the Christmas Carols performed by Our Lady of Grace Infant Choir, to performing with musicians Tom and Pete to the fire safety advice offered by members of Willesden Green Fire Service.
Of course the sociability of the weekly café meetings is extremely important where chatting, laughing, renewing and making friendships is always encouraged and enjoyed by those who attend.
As wellbeing and taking care of one’s health is of paramount importance to those living with dementia and their carers, the Ashford Place Wellbeing team now deliver an advice talk on Keeping Healthy during the DeCafe session, with topics ranging from dental and eye care to how to deal with falls, cramps, healthy diet and tips for a better night’s sleep as well as reminding members to avail of their annual health checks and vaccinations. This wellbeing initiative is being rolled out through all the Dementia Cafes affiliated to Ashford Place.
Members of the Café enjoyed a recent meeting with a delegation from the Irish embassy when they visited Ashford Place. They were impressed by the visitor’s friendliness and interest in the Café activities and they shared many reminisces of life in Ireland and of the journeys that brought them to the UK.
Ashford Place Dementia Café meets every Tuesday afternoon from 2 - 4pm and is open to people living with dementia within the environs of Cricklewood. Telephone 020 8208 8590 for information.