Creative projects help improve wellbeing of residents living with dementia

Families and friends of care home residents have been handed £10,000 for pioneering sessions improving the wellbeing of those living with dementia.

The Big Lottery Awards for All funding was secured by the Friends of Abbeyfield, a group set up by relatives and staff at the Alnwick care home to provide quality of life opportunities for residents.

With more than 20 residents, some with severe health conditions and dementia, the home has been hosting sessions run by Equal Arts and Dexterity, a group of older dancers from Northumberland led by professional dancer Emma Dunn.

Having seen first-hand the positive impact creativity can have on residents the Friends group now plan to spend the £10,000 on further creative projects throughout 2015 to improve the wellbeing of residents.

Audrey Appleby, chair of the Friends of Abbeyfield, said: “We have never had any funding of this kind and so it’s overwhelming to have the ability to bring in these creative projects we know residents enjoy and which can benefit their lives.

“Abbeyfield has this buzz about it, people come in and comment on the great atmosphere. This is down to Dexterity. The residents remember and look forward to these sessions.”

Set up three years ago Dexterity sees active older people learning contemporary dance moves alongside strengthening exercises to improve balance and posture.

They take their sessions into care settings for regular peer-led sessions with residents and staff.

Joanna Clark, Abbeyfield manager, said: “The visual benefits witnessed by residents’ families have been very positive. Certain residents who suffer from dementia have responded exceptionally well and residents and staff have had a boost in morale since Dexterity started their sessions. We are looking forward to this continuing.”

To find out more about Dexterity at Abbeyfield ring Emma Dunn on 07920 514401.

For more details about Equal Arts’ creative projects please get in touch

For more information contact Kerry Wood on 07576 874004.