“Diverse and entertaining” dementia book officially launched
Orchard Care Homes, a leading provider of high-quality care for the elderly, has launched a new children’s activity book, ‘Making Sense of Dementia,’ designed to develop understanding and help children feel less confused when someone close to them is diagnosed with dementia.
The new book will feature in all 39 of Orchard Care Homes residences and will also be sent to local schools in Sunderland in an attempt to increase awareness of dementia amongst young people.
‘Making Sense of Dementia’ features fun traditional games such as mazes, spot the difference, optical illusions, memory tests, word searches and much more. Every activity is linked to the challenges somebody with dementia may face, with many pages asking children to question what they could do to help. By taking part in these activities, children will better understand what living with dementia may feel like as well as help them empathise and bond with family members who have the condition.
Professor Martin Green, OBE, Chief Executive of Care England, welcomed the book, saying: “Making Sense of Dementia” is a new book produced Orchard Care Homes and aimed at young people over 8 years of age. The book explains and helps young people to understand and connect with people living with dementia. It’s very informative, interactive and full of puzzles, questions and activities that give insight and develop understanding in a diverse and entertaining way. I sincerely hope that this publication will be used in schools and by families to improve young people's knowledge of dementia, and to break down the barriers of fear and misunderstanding that exist about this increasingly common condition.”
Co-author Lorraine Lee, Executive Director of Quality & Governance at Orchard Care Homes, commented: “I am passionate about making the lives of people with dementia better. ‘Making Sense of Dementia’ will help children understand what it feels like to have dementia and provides them with the tools to make them feel less confused about why the person is changing. Our aim was to create a book that will go some way towards helping families stay close to their loved one with dementia – and achieve this in a fun and engaging way.”
The book was written to coincide with the launch of Reconnect, a ground-breaking new approach to dementia care by Orchard Care Homes. Created by leading sector professionals following three years of research and development, the model recognises the importance of relationships, communication, environment, empathy and meaningful occupation to improve resident’s quality of life.
Launching with a Community Open Day and a Professionals Open Day at Ashlea Lodge Care Home, Millfield, Sunderland on Monday 9th September 2019 between 10am and 3pm, the Reconnect model will deliver an innovative approach to empower people living with dementia to retain their identity, in a safe and positive environment. The home has been designed to recognise the needs of people with dementia, with small lounges, in a homely yet therapeutic environment supported by a team of highly trained dementia therapists. The specialist care approach will provide people with dementia and complex needs with the continuity of care that the condition requires.
Lorraine Lee continued: “There is so much more research and understanding of the disease, and we now have the opportunity to significantly improve the way we care for people with dementia. Research into the condition formed the basis of Reconnect. The number of people living with dementia within the UK is predicted to rise to 1,700,000 by 2051, and we all are likely to know someone who suffers from the disease. By putting ourselves in the shoes of the person living with dementia, we are able to see the world through their eyes, and deliver care that is truly personal to them, and address any of the challenges in a positive and empowering way. “
To keep up to date with us, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube
