5 Dementia-Friendly Activities in the Camberley Area
Looking for trips out with your loved one? Welcome to your free guide to dementia-friendly activities in Camberley. Remember to share and bookmark it!
The Importance of Dementia-Friendly Activities in Camberley
1 in 14 people has dementia in the UK, according to Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Dementia Statistics Hub, a statistic referenced from a research paper by Wittenberg, R., et al. (2019). This number has risen significantly over the last thirteen years and is estimated to grow at an even faster pace by 2040.
While maintaining mental activity is not a cure for dementia, studies have shown that individuals with low to mid-spectrum conditions can benefit from cognitive-focused activities (Woods et al., 2023). These can improve recognition, memory recall, and problem-solving skills. They can also improve moods and support better sleep, which could otherwise lead to challenging behaviours.
Physical benefits from a more active lifestyle also play a role in reducing falls among elderly individuals with dementia by promoting improved muscle mass, cardiovascular health, motor skills, coordination, and balance.
And then there’s emotional health. We have seen a tangible emotional health benefit occur when people with dementia engage in both mental and physical activity, particularly when social connection is involved. Our care professionals have witnessed significant improvements in the lives of clients who would otherwise face loneliness and isolation. They have a greater sense of self in their lucid moments, and by not closing off, they manage the transition of their condition with a stronger outlook. They also re-engage with family, friends, and the community.
Dementia-Friendly Activities in the Camberley Area
Here is a list of some activities available in your local area that you can incorporate into your care routine.
Alzheimer Cafe Camberley
St Martin’s Church Office, Upper College Ride, Camberley, GU15 4HE
Third Monday of every month, 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Daisy Chain Cafe
Darby Green Centre, Darby Green Road, Blackwater, GU17 0DT
Every Monday, except for bank holidays, 2 pm to 4 pm.
Melody for the Mind
Singing and musical activities at High Cross Church, Knoll Road, Camberley, GU153SY
First and third Friday of every month, 1:30 pm to 3 pm.
Miriam Grace Day Centre and Dementia Swim Club
St Anne’s Church Centre, 45 Church Road, Bagshot, GU19 5EQ.
We can personally recommend the Miriam Grace Day Centre, and we regularly attend with our clients.
Find out more about theirswim group here and learn more about howwe have worked with them previously here.
Princes Hall Theatre
Princes Hall, Princes Way, Aldershot, GU11 1NX
The Princes Hall Theatre offers an ‘Essential Companion’ scheme, providing a free or half-price ticket to those attending as a carer for a person(s) with accessibility needs.Find out more here.
What to Take with You on Your Trip Out
Leaving the house can feel a little daunting. We get it. If Mum or Dad is having a bad day, then it can feel almost impossible. But in some cases, getting out of the house might be the tonic you both need.
Our Home Instead Camberley team has put together a list of things to take with you that will help your trip go a bit smoother.
- Spare clothing, incontinence products, wet wipes, and tissues: Accidents can happen in the later stages of dementia. Being prepared can help you out in a pinch.
- Light layers of clothing or comfort: Someone with dementia may not be able to articulate if they are feeling hot or cold, so having easy layers on hand is helpful. As is a comforting blanket or throw for those moments when they are feeling uncertain.
- Medications, medical ID and emergency contacts: Carry what you need for the time you’ll be out in an easy-to-handle container. While IDs and emergency contacts are for those ‘just-in-case’ moments, having them on hand can be useful if the person you are caring for wanders.
- Snacks and water: Having something available will help you to keep on top of hydration and nourishment. And if Mum or Dad is struggling to find something they like on a snack bar or menu, having a small box of something you know they’ll love can help you in moments while you’re eating 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, and a redirect. A familiar item from home can do that, as can photos.
- Noise-cancelling headphones: Many people struggle with auditory distractions, and individuals with dementia are no exception. They may find excessive ambient noises upsetting. Having something to cancel out the negative aspects can help them enjoy their surroundings a little better.
- A phone charger and power bank: Choose a lightweight and fast-charging power bank to ensure you can keep your phone topped up.
- 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: Find a lightweight bag with multiple compartments that you can access without unpacking the main liner to retrieve items. This can make dealing with spills and requests quick and easy.
How to Handle Challenging Dementia Behaviours While Out and About
We’ve all had an off day. For dementia sufferers, not being able to communicate or process feelings of distress or discomfort and periods of non-lucidity or mental confusion can present in challenging behaviours. These might include swaying or rocking, calling out, walking away or wandering, being argumentative and sometimes hitting out. It can be challenging to deal with and, at times, even embarrassing. But there are some things you can do to help bring your loved one (and yourself) back to focus and calm.
Firstly, try to calm yourself. Easier said than done, but having a more relaxed approach can help to calm the person exhibiting distress or discomfort. Keep your tone soft and your body language open. Work together to identify and resolve the issue. And remember, don’t correct, but redirect once you have established that the discomfort is not caused by pain, a lack of food, or water.
Always work on bringing their focus back to you. Sitting beside them quietly can sometimes offer all the reassurance they need to shift from challenging behaviour. It can also provide you with an opportunity to redirect their attention from discomfort or stress to something more positive, such as a memory photo on your phone or a drink of water.
And most of all, stay positive. Yes, you may have experienced what feels like a challenging episode, but you can and will get through it. You are more capable than you know. Breathe deeply. Clear your mind and meet the challenge head-on. And remember. For these moments of non-lucidity or challenge, there will be moments of joy and laughter. These are the moments you will cherish.
How Home Instead Ascot, Camberley and Wokingham Supports Dementia Clients
At Home Instead Ascot, Camberley and Wokingham, we work directly with families like yours to offer ourdementia-led home care services. We work to establish an environment where adults with dementia can feel secure and able to continue to engage with their loved ones, even when their condition progresses. We also support you by offering opportunities for assistance and respite whenever needed.
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)
And our Camberley hub covers:
– Bagshot
– Blackwater
– Camberley
– Lightwater
– Yateley
Working with us is easy. In fact, it's a 3 step process.
Step 1 – Call us on 01276 903106, and we will talk you through how our dementia care works.
Step 2 – Arrange a complimentary home visit to meet us and learn more about how we can tailor our service offer to meet your specific needs.
Step 3 – Sign up and meet your team in a pre-service home visit.
