Imagine watching as a loved-one slowly (or in some cases rapidly) begins to deteriorate because of the on-set of dementia – and not being able to help them. Many people do not understand dementia or know how to support people who have it.

Dementia is not simply a natural part of ageing and it doesn’t just affect older people. Over 40,000 people under 65 in the UK have dementia. This is called early-onset or young-onset dementia.

Many people suffer face the effects of the condition alone – especially in environments outside of their own homes, without family and friends watching over them.

Therefore, The Barnet Group is supporting National Dementia Awareness Week – we want to be a part of creating a dementia-friendly environment in Barnet.

Recently, staff from Your Choice Barnet, Sheltered Housing, Assist, Barnet Homes and Barnet Council experienced first-hand some of symptoms that dementia sufferers must go through in a training exercise.

The hard-hitting training around dementia came via the ‘Mobile Virtual Dementia Tour’. Staff members were able share and discuss the experiences they had in thought provoking and empathic way.

Here is a snap-shot of what some of our staff from across The Barnet Group learned about what goes on in the mind of a dementia-sufferer:

  • “One of the aspects that really hit home to me were the observations. It gave me a real insight into the world of dementia and watching others, I could really identify with what I saw.
  • “This was training with a difference, it was amazing, it genuinely hit home how hard life can be for someone with dementia.”
  • “Having attended this experience, I am going to definitely consider this training for people who experience autism, it was amazing.”

Staff will also be attending a play this week at The Finchley Arts Depo: ‘Don’t Leave Me Now’, A powerful and moving play- reading, exploring with humour, compassion and insight the impact of early onset dementia. There will be experts in the field of dementia on hand to answer questions.

The Alzheimers Society encourage us to be a part of the conversation about how to help people living with dementia – use #DAW2018 on social media or visit their website here: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk

Dementia-friendly support in Barnet – find out more on the Council’s website: here