REDUCING FEELINGS OF isolation amongst people with dementia and their families is the aim of a Moray group who are holding regular events around Moray.
The Alzheimer Scotland group in Moray have established groups in Elgin, Forres, Buckie and Lossiemouth – each aimed at helping people cope with the difficulties faced by Dementia sufferers.
These include ‘Musical Memories’ at the Ashgrove Hall in New Elgin and ‘Hae a News’ in Buckie’s Fisherman’s Hall, Forres Bowling Club and Lossiemouth Baptist Church.
“Our community groups are there to be enjoyed by anyone living with dementia or experiencing difficulties with their memory, including their families and friends,” Sharon Finlay, community activities organiser for Alzheimer Scotland in Moray said.
She added: “All ae welcome along and people can attend independently – or for those unable to do so with a companion who can provide transport for them. We can’t provide transport ourselves for these groups so it is the responsibility of those attending to get to and from the community activity sessions safely.”
The use of music has been shown to be a powerful tool in sparking memories in those who suffer Alzheimer’s – most people associate music with important events and a wide range of emotions throughout their lives.
The next ‘Musical Memories’ sessions in Elgin will take place on February 1 and 15, March 1, 15 and 29 from 1.30pm until 3.30pm.
‘Hae a News’ sessions are an opportunity to have a cup of tea and take part in a series of activities such as quizzes, dominoes, bingo, crafts and card games.
The next dates for these, all timed from 10.30am to 12noon, are:
Lossiemouth: February 9, March 9, April 13, May 11 and June 8
Forres: February 7, March 7, April 4, May 2, June 6 and July 4
Buckie: February 16, March 16, April 20, May 18, June 22.
For more information on all sessions contact Sharon by Email on sfinlay@alzscot.org or by calling 01343 552080 or 07584 408209.