Carers in touch
A book to give your brain a boost
There are now more than 850,000 people in the UK living with dementia and it’s well known that keeping active both mentally and physically can help slow and delay the symptoms.
A new book, The Memory Activity Book, aimed at people with dementia or memory loss and their carers, features 70 brain-stimulating activities that include physical exercises, games, craft projects and leisure pursuits as well as how best to interact with people with memory problems.
It’s important in the early stages of dementia to focus on things a person can do rather than what they can’t do. It’s also helpful to establish routines to help maintain independence such as clearing cupboards to make it easier for sufferers to find things, or preparing memory labels and signs to remind them how to use the washing machine, to indicate the contents of a cupboard, or even the way to the loo.
The book includes a section on keeping physically fit, simple relaxation techniques and getting out and about to enjoy nature.
There’s also a large arts and crafts
section, ranging from painting to drawing, as well as puzzles and games to stimulate the memory.
When words become a struggle, the ability to sing remains. Even if their memory is unreliable, they may still remember the words and tunes of favourite songs. Singing groups for people living with dementia are available nationwide.
The book contains a section on recording your life story too, which is a good way to stimulate the memory of someone with dementia.
■ Singing for the Brain group, visit www.alzheimers.org.uk or call the National Dementia helpline on 0300 222 1122
THE ONLY MAGAZINE WITH DEDICATED PAGES OFFERING ADVICE AND SUPPORT TO THE UK’S SIX MILLION CARERS Rosie Sandall,
Reader Care Editor