VIKINGS IN THE COMMUNITY RL memories help dementia patients
RUGBY league memories were rekindled at a monthly event held by Widnes Vikings for those living with dementia.
The second Chemics Café took place on Wednesday, July 6.
The initiative is run by Widnes Vikings and Community Integrated Care and aims to support people who live with dementia and their loved ones.
It offers them practical advice as well as opportunities to socialise, have fun and reminisce about special Vikings moments.
The recent event involved recent Vikings signing Jack Buchanan giving guests a special backstage tour of the Select Security Stadium, and legendary player Joe Argent lead a session where members picked their all-time Vikings dream team
Guests also enjoyed Tai Chi – an exercise that has great health benefits for people with dementia promoting their mobility and relaxation – and learned about music therapy.
Australian prop Jack, who signed for the Vikings in May, said: “I had a fantastic time at the Chemics Café.
“It was a pleasure to give guests a special tour of the stadium, showing them our changing rooms and taking them pitch-side, and to spend time speaking with the fans.
“The event really showed me how passionate the people of Halton are about Widnes Vikings, something that I’ve experienced as a player.
“It’s been great to back the partnership with the Vikings and Community Integrated Care, and see how we’re using rugby league to make a difference to the lives of people who live with dementia.”
Chemics Café sessions are led by Community Integrated Care’s specialist dementia team and the Vikings Sports Foundation on the first Wednesday of every month from 11am to 12.30pm.
Every event features contributions from a Vikings legend and dementia specialists, who give people vital advice to support living well with the condition.
Community Integrated Care’s head of marketing and communications John Hughes said: “This Chemics Café was a fantastic event that really brought a smile to everyone’s faces.
“In a packed morning, guests enjoyed everything from spending time with a current Super League star and club legend, in Jack Buchanan and Joe Argent, through to trying tai chi and learning how nostalgic music can stimulate memories.
“This is what the Chemics Café is all about – brightening the day of people affected by dementia, by giving them special experiences and vital support.”