Dementia Drop in Sessions
In June, we hosted drop-in sessions across Lanark, Biggar, Carluke, Bothwell, and Strathaven. These sessions were designed to offer the public an opportunity to learn more about dementia and seek support for family members living with the condition.
When a family member is diagnosed with dementia, it significantly alters the family’s life balance. Often, families struggle to cope with these changes and require guidance and support. The new behaviours and needs of their loved one can be confusing and overwhelming.
Our sessions provided a space for people to share their experiences and receive practical advice on handling these challenges. For instance, one session was attended by a couple where the husband had both dementia and Parkinson’s. The wife needed respite care to have some personal time, a common need we encounter. Many people are unaware of where to find such help, which is why these sessions were essential.
At the Bothwell session, our care manager, Lindsay, met with a woman who wanted to discuss how her life had changed since her husband developed dementia. Lindsay provided her with information about various dementia clubs in the Hamilton and Bothwell areas that they could attend.
In Lanark, our care manager, Lesley, received several phone calls from individuals confirming their attendance at the sessions in Lanark and Biggar. They sought information on the types of assistance we could offer. Due to limited support from social services, many were eager to learn about our services, which include respite care, accompanying family members to dementia clubs, outings for coffee, and other needed support.
Through our work in dementia care, we have connected with various organisations and groups, including the voluntary sector that runs dementia clubs. These collaborations have highlighted the value of such groups in providing quality time and support for families.
As a result of our networking, we identified a need for more dementia cafes/clubs in certain areas. Therefore, we have decided to start our own groups. We will launch two cafes: one in Motherwell at St Mary’s Parish Church on Avon Street and another at Revolve Community Hub, 56 Hamilton Road, Cambuslang. The Cambuslang group will begin on Saturday, August 17th, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm and will meet monthly. The Motherwell group will start on Thursday, September 12th, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and will also meet monthly.
These groups will be run by Home Instead South Lanarkshire and Hamilton staff and will operate as charitable organisations, with optional donations going to charity or funding additional activities and entertainment for the groups.
Areas We Serve
Hamilton, Uddingston, Motherwell, Bothwell, Strathaven, Bellshill, Rutherglen, Cambuslang & the surrounding areas
G71 5, G71 6, ML2 7, ML4 3, ML1 3, ML1 2, ML2 0, ML4 1, ML4 2, G72 6, G73 5, G71 8, G72 9, G73 4, G71 7, ML1 1, ML1 4, G72 0, ML2 8, ML1 5, G72 8, G72 7
Unit 2 Brandon House Business Centre, 23-25 Brandon St, Hamilton ML3 6DA, UK
01698 532002