Cannock Soroptimists are supporting Dementia Action Week, 17th – 23rd May by featuring real life stories from those who care for people with Dementia. Some give their story as a family carer: wife or daughter, others are talking about their caring role within a professional setting. All are extremely powerful, written from the heart and Soroptimists are grateful to all participants for having the courage to write about such personal and emotive matters.
Each of the seven participants will be featured, one per day during the week, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, all will be featured for the whole week and beyond on the club’s website.
A staff member from Littleton Lodge, Cannock [residents will be moving in there very soon] but who has also experienced Dementia in the family writes: “It is imperative to remember that, though the person may have dementia, this does not define them. Having a care need may mean some adaptations may be required to empower a person to live the life they wish. That person however still has their hopes, ambitions, interests, experiences, family ties and personality to name but a few things which encompass being a person/human.”
A feeling that comes through many of the offerings is the way the carer can feel inadequate. Our professional contributor says this:
“I am always surprised by family of residents who say they are in awe of how the care team meets their loved ones needs.
Let me inform you. The care team is in awe of you, the family member who has dedicated themselves to supporting someone with dementia. As carers we have allotted breaks and though we work long shifts, we go home, and can ‘switch off’ knowing there are colleagues supporting our residents.
Family members supporting someone with dementia often do not have these luxuries, and are often supporting a family member 24/7. You have my absolute respect. At Littleton Lodge we will support families as well as residents in any way we can”.
Jackie Prince, President of SI Cannock said that she hopes the words above will help all those caring for someone with Dementia to know not only how important their role is but also to feel valued for doing so.
Cannock Soroptimists and friends have also provided hundreds of crafted forget-me-nots, joining with the Cannock Town Centre Dementia Friends group to help raise awareness of Dementia.
It is acknowledged that caring for someone with Dementia can be stressful and exhausting – but there is help and support available. If you feel in need of support please call the Dementia Connect Line -Alzheimer’s Society on 0333 150 3456
It’s What You Do That Counts
Photo attached: 1.l to r: Soroptimist Cal Jones also of Cannock Dementia Friends with Jackie Prince, President SI Cannock & District
- Forget-me-nots used to raise awareness of Dementia Action Week