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A new social and support group has been set up for those who have had a recent diagnosis or are suffering with mild symptoms of dementia.
Set up by Dementia Jersey, the Meeting Places programme will give two groups of up to 10 people a mix of different activities and support.
Based on a programme founded by the University of Worcester, it operates on the principle that if people make good emotional, social and practical adjustments following diagnosis, it’s more likely they will be able to live at home longer and enjoy a better quality of life.
Pictured: The group aims to intervene from first symptoms, so that it's more likely those affected are able to live at home for longer.
Daniel du Heaume, Education and Meeting Place Project Coordinator, explained: “Getting a diagnosis of dementia is different for everyone.
“For some people it can be a daunting and emotionally overwhelming experience, whilst others have described a sense of relief that they finally have answers for the symptoms they are experiencing.
“Many people with dementia want to find ways to cope, stay healthy and delay the progression of symptoms, and this is why we’ve created The Meeting Place Project.
“At the heart of this programme is a community social club where people meet to exchange experiences, have fun and get targeted support.
“Dementia Jersey exists to support the community and this project is another avenue of our support for those living with dementia and we thank the Government of Jersey for funding this initiative.”
Pictured: The competition will give challenges for people to complete across the island and at home.
Dr Juan Melendez, Associate Specialist/Clinical Lead at the Memory Assessment Service, who recommended many of the individuals who are now signed up to the programme, said: “I welcome Dementia Jersey’s Meeting Place Project. Living well and taking care of our brain health is a lifelong process which should not stop following a diagnosis of dementia.
“The Meeting Place fills a gap in the post-diagnostic stage and will help those individuals recently diagnosed with dementia to engage with other peers in evidence based but also meaningful activities, all in a relaxed and socially enriched environment.”
As well as launching a new support group, Dementia Jersey has recently announced another fundraiser.
It is bringing back its popular ‘Rally Round for Dementia' event, which challenges islanders to explore Jersey and its parishes in a series of tasks, do indoor challenges and learn about Dementia - in the style of Channel 4's popular Taskmaster show.
Prizes available for the top three highest marked entries including: an Xbox One, aerial trekking for a family of four, and a coastal guard visit, with the closing date for completed entries being 3 September.
Entry sheets are £20 and can be picked up from the Dementia Jersey office. Islanders can also request a form via email.
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