“Alzheimer’s has taken her independence away – however, it has never taken her friendly nature and her love for people.”
Mary loved to work with people and would often volunteer to help out in the Trafford area. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
It became tough for Mary’s family, seeing someone they love having to live with dementia. It was tough for Mary to continue to do the things she loved.
Tough but not impossible.
Enter Age UK Trafford. Its Passion for Life Dementia Day Care has been open during the Covid pandemic and has a massive impact on people like Mary.
Mary’s daughter, Julie, said:
"It has been a godsend to me and my mum. She can socialise and take part in lots of activities makes her happy and keeps her mind going.
She loves to sing and dance – she loves to sing along to the songs they play.
I came early one afternoon and watched her singing and dancing – she was really enjoying herself. This reminded me of who she is, happy and outgoing and a social butterfly.
When she returns home from Age UK Trafford, she always comes home happier.”
The day care is also a positive experience for the families of loved ones living with dementia.
Caroline, whose mum attends the day care, said:
“I have a day off for myself, knowing my mum is in good hands.
The staff are so wonderful, not only for my mum but me too. I would recommend it to any family who are looking after someone with dementia.”
This Wednesday will see a special afternoon tea in the day care centre, as part of Dementia Action Week, which is from 17-23 May.
Age UK Trafford will also be launching a new Wednesday Walking Group for people with dementia and their carers, as well as a workshop or people with a recent diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
Cllr Jo Harding, who chairs the Age Well Board in Trafford, said it was important that people with dementia and their carers received the support they need.
She said:
“It is a Council priority that everyone lives well and remains active – both physically and mentally.
A diagnosis of dementia should not mean that your life is over. If you or your loved one has dementia, there is support available. With the right support, we want to make sure that quality of life can continue both for you and for your family.”
For more information or advice, visit the Trafford Age UK website.
Posted on Monday 17th May 2021