Blog: Dementia Awareness Workshop
Dementia Awareness Workshop for new and existing Cuimhne Champions.
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Cuimhne training group at table
Friday 31 March saw an introductory training session for our newest Cuimhne Champions Caroline Harris and Maura Pearson, who joined some of our existing Champions Carmel Murphy, Cathy McIntyre, Helen Gorry and Tina Bolger. Once again Dr Mary Tilki facilitated the get together with her carefully designed training programme with varying activities planned throughout the workshop.
Initially our new volunteers expressed some reservations about their lack of knowledge around memory loss/dementia. However, after coffee, biscuits and introductions, reassurance was quickly restored, as it was recognised that life/work experience and a caring nature were the key components to becoming a Cuimhne Champion. Dr Tilki was clear to all volunteers that the Cuimhne approach to training was not about making everybody experts in the field. The purpose of Cuimhne programme was about addressing the everyday complications that Irish people with memory loss encounter and assisting them in meeting the challenges of today, and tomorrow.
old items jogging the memory
One of the main activities of the day focused on items from the past stimulating individual memories. During a Cuimhne group meeting items generally associated to Ireland can enable the individual with memory loss to remember things from their past and of their former capabilities. This also allows the Cuimhne Champion to piece together the individual biography of the person in question so that their needs are specifically identified.
Top five helpful tips for group activities
Consider all that has made the person unique
This means knowing the person’s former lifestyle, work history, hobbies, recreational and social interest, travel and significant life events.
Activities can re–establish old roles
Make use of skills that have not been forgotten, such as buttering bread, washing up or watering sweeping, knitting and raking in the garden. These are also ways in which a person with dementia can contribute to the household and feel useful. Encourage an area or responsibility no matter how small.
scarf knitted
Activities can give relaxation and pleasure
A person with memory loss/dementia may enjoy an outing even if they do not remember where they have been. What is important is that the moment is enjoyed, even though the experience may soon be forgotten.
Don’t allow activities to reinforce inadequacy or increase stress
Abilities can fluctuate from day to day. Activities can be adapted and tried another time if not successful or enjoyable.
Don’t give up
Mistakes and failures will happen, but don’t let the person with memory loss/dementia feel like a failure. Keep trying!
Get in touch
To find out about further training opportunities or become an a Cuimhne Champion contact the Volunteer Coordinator on 020 3903 0985 or email at champions@irishinbritain.org.
Find out more about the Cuimhne Project and what we do.