The forgotten victims of Covid-19

The pandemic is accelerating cognitive and physical decline among those living with dementia, hears Amy Packer

situation, while the loss of routine and companionship from loved ones has also made life more difficult for people with dementia, especially those living in care homes who have been unable to see friends and family.

“It would be fair to assume that these factors could be leading to the rapid decline we’re seeing in people with dementia during the pandemic, though more research is needed.”

As for those looking to keep loved ones as well as possible, Susan says: “During this difficult time we strongly recommend that people make sure they access the medical support they need, as the NHS is still open for business. And where possible, stay physically and mentally active and keep connected to others, safely.”

Families are finding this is easier said than done, sadly.

“Since we can no longer take Mum out, our days are quite limited,” says Rebecca. “Mum can no longer read or write or follow TV and films, but she does enjoy and engage with music, so we play it near constantly to try and keep her entertained – I have different playlists depending on mood and behaviour.”

Whilst verbal and physical interaction are key to slowing the effects of dementia, game play therapy is also an important tool to cut through apathy and create genuine moments of happiness, yet the Tover study found that only a quarter of those asked said their relative with dementia has access to activities designed to aid mental stimulation.

“It is vital that we look to the solutions more readily available that can be implemented alongside the restrictions of the pandemic,” says Dr Le Riche. “This includes games and services that provide cognitive stimulation, such as the Tovertafel (Magic Table in Dutch), our contactless interactive light game, designed specifically for people with dementia to help stimulate movement and social interaction.

“There is a way to go until we as a nation are able to prioritise this kind of support and adopt a more holistic approach so these individuals can maintain a respectable quality of life. “Right now, it is crucial that their mental wellbeing is not overlooked whilst we battle to protect their physical health from the virus.”

For now, Rebecca is grateful she has managed to find support online. I’ve found the Facebook groups for carers and those who have loved ones affected by dementia a useful source of information,” she says. “It’s a relief knowing we’re not the only ones going through this.

“Since activities are pretty limited, I tend to sit and hold Mum’s hand a lot. I’ve read that physical touch can mentally stimulate and make her feel less alone. I’m so grateful that I can have those moments to do that.

“There are so many families who cannot be with their loved ones in care homes or who have barely seen them this past year.

“Really, we’re so lucky to be with mum to see her through this final stage of her life, despite how tough it has been.”

I hold Mum s hand a lot. I read touch can make her feel less alone