20 Dementia-Friendly Activities in the Bracknell Area

Dementia also brings emotional change. Engaging in meaningful activities gives people with dementia something to look forward to, which can boost their mood and reduce feelings of isolation (Roland KP, et al., 2015.).

Physical activities such as walking, gentle exercise, or dancing can also enhance physical health, motor skills, coordination, and balance. All work to reduce the risk of falls, improve sleep, and maintain independence for as long as possible. Studies have also shown that exercise alleviates common dementia-related symptoms like restlessness or irritability, even in small doses (Ahlskog JE, et al., 2011.).

More than that, sitting down and enjoying something together is a powerful reconnective tool. And in those small moments where you see lucidity or share a giggle over your craft creations, you get to be family again, even if you feel they are unaware of that. Those are moments to hold on to.

Singing for the Brain: A heartwarming and innovative program that harmonises the power of music with the magic of memory. Designed to uplift and engage individuals with cognitive challenges, this community initiative invites participants to join their voices in song, creating a soothing and supportive environment that fosters connection and well-being. Fourth Thursday of the month at The New Priestwood Community Centre.

Dementia-Friendly Cinema Screenings: This service brings the magic of movies to individuals with dementia and their families. Designed with a deep understanding of the unique needs of those affected by dementia, these screenings offer a safe and inclusive space where everyone can enjoy the power of film. With carefully chosen films, considerate seating arrangements, and trained staff, Bracknell’s Dementia-Friendly Cinema Screening is a place where the silver screen becomes a source of comfort, nostalgia, and shared experiences. Check for adapted screenings at South Hill Park Arts Centre.

Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (MCST): Cognitive exercises and activities to stimulate cognition, motor skills and more. Age UK Berkshire: Tel: 0118 959 4242; Email: [email protected]

Neuro Walking Football: Gentle exercise and football quizzes. Bracknell Leisure Centre, Tuesdays.

Knit and Knatter: Social knitting group. Forget-me-knot, Bracknell, Tuesdays.

Bracknell Happiness Hub Drop-in: Informal drop-in for information and connection. First Thursday of every month – Brew Coffee Bar, Town Square, Bracknell, RG12 1BH.

• Medical ID and emergency contacts: This is a ‘just-in-case’ scenario, but having copies with you is sometimes necessary, as is stuffing a copy of emergency contacts into your loved one’s pocket. Dementia patients can wander, and if they find themselves confused or struggling to communicate, this detail will help bring them home.

• Snacks and water: If your loved one is struggling to communicate, they may not be able to indicate that they need food and water. Or they may simply not remember. Having something available will help you prompt better hydration and nourishment during your trip out.

• A familiar item from home and memory photos on your phone: When dementia sufferers feel frazzled and confused, they often need a little time to calm themselves. A familiar item from home can do that as can flipping through memory photos on your phone. In fact, this is an excellent tool if you find your loved one time-shifting and reliving past moments.

• Noise-cancelling headphones: Some dementia sufferers will struggle with lots of ambient or auditory noises. Having noise-cancelling headphones can be helpful, particularly if you need to stay in a noisy spot for a reason, such as a doctor’s office. If your loved one struggles to wear headphones for extended periods or finds the ordeal claustrophobic, then consider refocusing their attention away from the confusing noise with one of your objects or photos.

• A phone charger and power bank: Being connected when you need it is critical. Choose a lightweight and fast-charging power bank to ensure you can keep your phone topped up as required.

• Notebook and pen: Useful for your observations and notes, a notebook can also be helpful for those struggling to communicate who can still use ‘yes/no’ prompts.

Our top tip: Make sure your bag has many compartments you can access without unpacking the main liner to get to things. This can make dealing with spills and requests quick and easy.

4. Read the signs early: Look for behavioural cues early, such as pacing, fidgeting, or scanning the environment, as this could signal discomfort. Respond to their mood, not just words but with a gentle tone, by stepping in early with reassurance or distraction.

5. Engage non-verbal interactions with emotion: Mirror their energy calmly. If they’re anxious, slow your movements and breathing to set a gentler tone. Offer objects or photos that can offer grounding. And consider using music or rhythm. For example, a gentle humming or playing familiar music can help shift attention and reduce agitation.

6. Always be present without pressure: Sitting beside them quietly can sometimes offer all the reassurance they need to shift from challenging behaviour.

7. Use time-shifting to de-escalate stress: Don’t correct them if they’re time-shifting to the past. Instead, join them and revel in that moment until it passes or redirect them gently. For example: “Shall we go have a cup of tea?” instead of “That person is not here anymore.”

8. Practice self-compassion: Challenging moments don’t mean you’ve done something wrong, so let go of perfection and embrace that sometimes life feels messy. That’s perfectly okay. Taking a few deep breaths or a moment of stillness can help you both stay grounded. When you get home, consider if you need to adapt your approach the next time you go out together. Your journey will be a learning process, and that’s okay.

Dementia can change a person at an accelerated rate sometimes, but it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t enjoy time away from the house. Time to enjoy activities and build new memories together. Hopefully, you can use some of these tips to make outside activities more enjoyable for both of you.

We can help you with:

– Personal hygiene and grooming

– Meal preparation and physical activity

– Monitoring medication schedules

– Light housekeeping tasks

– Overnight assistance

– Engaging in activities for mental stimulation

– Promoting social interactions and enriching life experiences (including days or afternoons out)

Our client, Jean, has advanced dementia and can be very confused at times, presenting challenging behaviours. However, with the consistency of Lora, Lorrie, and Michelle, her Home Instead care professionals, she now sits calmly and sings in the kitchen while watching the birds instead of pacing as they arrive. She also enjoys an occasional trip to the garden centre, fully supported by her team, which she couldn’t do before.