New book explains dementia to children
THE Mallow-based Crystal Project, a HSE backed support group for people with dementia and their families, will launch their latest initiative at an information seminar tonight (Thursday) at 7.30pm at the Charleville Park Hotel.
The first illustrated book of its kind to be created in Ireland, ‘Feathers in my Brain’ was developed in response to the lack of resources for children that have a relative with dementia.
It tells the story of a little girl and her grandmother who has dementia, sensitively addressing how a diagnosis can impact on the family unit and how inclusion and openness can help create a better understanding of the condition.
The book will be launched by Kevin Quaid, who lives with Lewy Body Dementia. Other speakers will include Dr Ciara McGlade, consultant geriatrician; Sheena Cadoo, senior occupational therapist with Cork/ Kerry Community Healthcare and Amy Murphy a dementia advisor with the Alzheimer Society of Ireland.
Topics addressed will include explaining dementia, practical tips for living with the condition and available supports and services.
No booking is required and all are welcome.
Proceeds from the sale of the book, which is available to buy at www. crystalproject.ie, will go to help fund the various services the group offers.
Set up in 2012 and based in the Memory Resource Room and the Mallow Primary Healthcare Centre, the Crystal Project has proven to be an invaluable resource offering help and a wide variety of supports for people with dementia, their families and carers.
The Memory Resource Room is a dedicated space offering people concerned about their memory, those diagnosed with dementia and families affected by the condition to meet with a HSE occupational therapist to discuss the various issues they may be experiencing.
In addition to supporting those with dementia to stay active within their communities, the project offers help to their families through the provision of dedicated training and information programmes.
The Project also holds regular information evenings such as the one this evening and educational programmes at schools across the greater Mallow area.
On the third Saturday of each month the Project hosts the Memory Cafe at the Gilbert Centre in Mallow, which offers people the chance to meet for a leisurely chat in a friendly and supportive environment. Each month the meeting focusses on a different subject of interest from music to gardening to local history and landmarks.
For more information about the Memory Café, the Memory Resource Room or the many other initiatives undertaken by the Crystal Project visit www.crystalproject.ie.