When people living with dementia engage in meaningful activities, they can help slow the progression of the disease and prevent a decline in overall wellbeing. It’s like exercising a muscle – the more you use it, the stronger it stays. We have seen the difference engagement can make in the lives of those living with dementia - whether it be Jacqui’s knitting or Terry’s determination to finish his daily puzzle, you can feel the daily joy that radiates from both and the sheer sense of pride.

Similarly, Cathy and Janet cheekily ‘don’t take no’ for an answer as they politely ‘insist’ on helping with washing up and laying tables. 

Engagement doesn’t have to be complex or expensive. It can be as simple as a conversation, a puzzle or a walk in the garden. The key is to tailor activities to the individual’s interests, abilities and preferences. 

This is where our care team ponder interests, likes, abilities, retained skills and create a care plan with activities and engagement section so that care is seamless from shift to shift. Residents and Day Guests can thrive even in memory loss if we provide opportunities to connect and engage. It often requires patience and family members may not get their own needs met. This can be very hard and exhausting both emotionally and physically. Often, it’s easier to let someone else do the hard work.

So, join us. Spend a guilt free day catching up with your errands and rest and arrange a lovely day out for you and your loved one living with dementia. Even one day can have a longer effect.

At the Day Centre, we have staff who are excellent at engaging, encouraging, prompting, supporting, communicating and creating joyful moments for Residents of the Devonshire as well as Day Centre Guests. A lot of families tell us a day or two spent at the Devonshire makes all the difference. 

“Since Mum has been attending your day centre her mood and behaviour have improved greatly. She seems to be a lot happier and calmer when she returns home. Even her sense of humour seems to be returning, and it is nice to see her smile again” – Mrs Christine McGoldri