New Birches family support group to open in Rath Abbey

A new Birches family support group will open in the community house in Rath Abbey, Grange, Carlingford, on Wednesday March 1. It is planned that the group will meet on the first Wednesday of each month from 7.30 pm to 9 pm.

Diagnosis of dementia often brings fear and bewilderment to the person receiving the diagnosis and their family. It is important to be able to handle something which has the potential to completely change a life. Facing up to this situation needs support and understanding.

Rather than dementia being the focus of attention, it is better to concentrate on how a person can lead as normal a life as is possible despite the diagnosis. Everybody is entitled to a good quality of life.

Many benefits are gained and valuable information is shared when families/carers/ friends come together to support each other and share their experiences.

People who walk the same road, fully understand and appreciate the journey. Sharing of life’s experiences benefits everybody. Working together we can help bring each other through the various stages of dementia because of the unique understanding which exists

Caring for a loved one with dementia often affects the physical and mental health of the carer. To continue in the role of carer, you need to build into your life periods of time when a member of your family or a friend can ‘step in’ to allow you to ‘step out’ of your role for a while.

The family support group in Rath Abbey will be focused on making that journey easier for you and your loved one. Often grief walks with the carer. They become so engrossed in their role as carer that they might not recognise it, or indeed may not have the time to deal with their grief.

Sharing experiences is about realising that each person has different issues and various ways of coping. No two journeys are the same, each person and their needs are different. Together families and carers find the key to the ultimate goal which is to look after their loved one in their own home for as long as is possible.

The first group meeting with take place in Rath Abbey, Grange, Carlingford, on Wednesday March 1 at 7.30 pm. Families/carers/friends of those with memory/dementia issues are invited to drop in for a cup of tea and a chat in the relaxed atmosphere of Rath Abbey.

For further information please contact The Birches at 042-9351388 or email thebirchesdundalk@eircom.net or visit the website www. thebirches.ie