We received this wonderful testimonial from Paul who attended our Bradwell, Braintree Oasis group for a ‘Taster Day’ with his mum. It is heartwarming to see this from another perspective and these words which are in essence a detailed appraisal of the day could help others who are thinking about their loved one attending one of our groups.
“Having been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Mixed Dementia earlier this year and having reduced mobility, my mum, Kathleen (aged 84 and living alone) found herself increasingly isolated at home.
Mum needed to get out and engage with people to stave off boredom. The Alzheimer’s Society signposted us to Essex Dementia Care who suggested Mum might enjoy attending their Activity Centre in Bradwell Village each Monday from 11am to 3pm. A taster session to see how mum enjoyed attending was proposed.
As mums nearest relative (son) I was invited to attend. These are my observations. On arrival at Bradwell Village Hall we were met at our vehicle (which could stop right outside the hall) by one of the EDC team who carefully ensured mum safely reached her seat at a table that was arranged “conference style” in a U shape so everyone could see and interact with everyone else. I was struck by how appropriate and pleasant the venue was. There were no stairs to entry. The hall was clean, bright, and welcoming. A cup of tea and biscuit were soon produced, and conversations struck up. I met with Keith and Wendy (a married couple) that clearly enjoyed their weekly attendance at the centre. Mum had a chat with the lady sitting next to her. All were welcoming.
The first planned activity was some water colour painting which mum thoroughly enjoyed not having engaged in such since she was at school. We worked together on the painting which was a light house scene that was pre-drawn so that all we needed to do was paint the scene as multicoloured as we liked. By the time we completed our painting it was time for lunch. I was most impressed that the excellent cook also catered for me as well as all the regulars, but even catered for my Gluten Free diet! Lunch really was excellent. Very tasty indeed!
After lunch was refreshments (coffee and a biscuit) followed by several games of bingo, which was clearly a favourite. The EDC staff ensured even those with hearing loss (mum included) did not get left out and assisted where needed. Prizes were given, which added to the fun! After Bingo, the tables were cleared away and chairs were assembled into a large circle so that a game of “sit down volleyball” could be played with a beach ball. This generated a lot of laughter and fun and had everyone moving safely but within their limitations. In a flash it was 3pm! The time had shot past.
Mum had had fun. I had had fun. Did Mum want to attend the Activity Centre again. Of course, she did! 😊
EDC put me in touch with Braintree Community Transport who have been equally brilliant at helping Mum independently but safely travel to and from subsequent EDC Activity Centre days which is an essential service for us both. The Essex Dementia Care Activity Centre really is a great service, expertly delivered by wonderful people, helping people, live better with Dementia”
Paul McConnell