At Baycroft Flitwick Care Home near Ampthill, families from Baycroft Flitwick and the wider community were welcomed to participate in a supportive discussion organised by the Tibbs Dementia Foundation. The discussion focused on providing guidance and signposting for families and carers of people living with dementia.
‘As a community, we challenge existing stereotypes of dementia which are often associated with the later stages of cognitive decline. Our focus is on what people can still do and how we can use their skills and experiences together.’
‘We hope that our Tibbs Dementia Foundation is seen and felt to be a support, is informative, offers a sense of belonging, hope, fun, and a chance to continue to live as best as possible. We strive to look beyond the diagnosis and symptoms so that we can help retain that person’s individuality.’ Commented Tibbs Dementia Foundation CEO Sarah.
‘We host regular activity drop-ins, social groups, cognitive stimulation therapy, music sessions, and carers support groups. All of which offer opportunities for connections and meeting other people. They are also a regular and safe meeting point for our community to embark upon.’ Commented Tibbs Dementia support group facilitator - Charlotte.
Fiona, the relative of one resident at Baycroft Flitwick Care Home commented, ‘Baycroft Flitwick is a lovely care home and I feel super supported whenever I visit. My Grandfather is currently living with dementia, and it can be scary when you see your loved one decline. Through this talk today with Tibbs Dementia Foundation they have shown me that dementia is about what you can do, and you should focus on activities that can help with communication and giving a sense of purpose’. After the session Wellbeing Coordinator Bernie Hoo-Hing said, ‘One technique I feel I’ve learned today through hearing the talk was the rocking and rhythm idea. If your loved one stops in a doorway. This motion can create comfort and help ease them into making their next step. Tibbs Dementia Foundation opens your mindset to see the different ways connection and communication can be made when verbal communication becomes difficult.’
‘Tibbs has shown me that it isn’t the level of dementia or type of dementia an individual has but it’s about how to stay open-minded and allowing for new ideas and a positive approach to stay connected with your loved one’ said Fiona.
