Tag Archives: dementia
A new project is giving voice to people with dementia and their carers
A new project is giving voice to people with dementia and their carers
Over the last two years, Tommy Whitelaw has received hundreds of love letters. Wives write pouring out their feelings for their husbands. Sons tell of their devotion to their mothers. Childhood rivalries are long forgotten as siblings affectionately put pen to paper.
Two years ago, Whitelaw began sharing his own love story. His experiences as a full-time carer to his mum, Joan, who had developed vascular dementia, had opened his eyes to the crushing blow the condition deals some families. Seeking comfort and support, he launched a campaign from his bedroom asking others to write to him about their experiences. He pledged to take their letters to the Scottish Parliament and pounded the streets of Scotland to collect many in person.
“Every letter I’ve received has the word love in it. Every letter. But in all those letters love is matched with loneliness and isolation – the exact same things that I was feeling.”
Many of the letters end with a declaration that the author just wanted to write to someone who wouldn’t judge them – a sentiment he was also all-too-familiar with.
“I felt judged at all times caring for my mum. And sometimes when you feel judged it stops you asking for help. When you feel judged, you think, ‘Well, I will try to do this myself.’ And you can’t do it yourself.”
Angela Rippon says 'Stop the Stigma' at Alzheimer's Society Battersea Park Memory Walk
Angela Rippon says ‘Stop the Stigma’ at Alzheimer’s Society Battersea Park Memory Walk
Published 23 September 2013
Well respected broadcaster Angela Rippon called upon hundreds of walkers to help end the stigma around dementia, as she kick started the Battersea Park Memory Walk on Sunday 22 September.
Angela, who is an ambassador for the charity welcomed walkers and said:
‘Everyone here today will have been touched by dementia in some way. This event is a terrific opportunity to raise thousands of pounds and help ensure Alzheimer’s Society can support people living with dementia and continue funding research. We need to do all we can to help, not just for those who have the condition, but their carers and family members. Events like this are very important, they take a huge step forward to ensure as a society we breakdown the stigma around the disease and show everyone that it is possible to live well with dementia.’
The walk in South London is expected to raise a massive £125,000. Many of the groups of walkers have made over £500 in sponsorship including Eileen’s Angels – a group of six women were there for their mum. Kate Wise, from Fulham, said:
World Alzheimer’s Day – 21st September 2013. How to talk to somebody with dementia!
The aim of this blog is both to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia and to give a few hints to how better communicate with people who are losing cognitive abilities.There are a few basic principles which we would like to share with you. Please feel free to share with others as well.a) Firstly introduce yourself and address the person by their name. This means that you will limit possibilities of confusion.
b) Beware of facial expressions and body language.
c) Do not get angry however hard the conversation is.
d) Try to be as simple as possible in both your choice of words and sentences. If you have to impart any instructions please just do one at a time.
e) Be patient. It can be tough for both parties.
