FROM January people with dementia have access to weekly Activity Groups in Harlow, Uttlesford and Dunmow run by Essex charity Action for Family Carers.

Over 50 people in West Essex already attend the groups mixing with others and participating in a variety of mentally and physically stimulating activities ranging from seated exercise, indoor bowling, reminiscence discussions and games often including music.

Action for Family Carers has taken over management of the groups which were previously run by the Alzheimer’s Society. The Groups are led by a small team of professional and caring staff and a large number of dedicated local volunteers. Morning sessions, called Keeping Active, focus on physical activity and afternoon sessions, called Active Minds, focus on activities to stimulate the mind.

Physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and can help your overall wellbeing. It can give opportunities to spend time with others, reducing isolation and loneliness and support people to continue being independent.

Cognitive stimulation involves activities and exercises that stimulate thinking, concentration, communication and memory in the person with dementia. It involves talking about day-to-day interests, reminiscence and information relating to the current time and place.

Speaking about the Activity Groups, Action for Family Carers’ CEO, James Clarke said ‘We are delighted to be supporting people living with dementia in West Essex. We have been pleased to work with the Alzheimer’s Society to ensure the continuation of these highly valued groups and we look forward to supporting many more people in the future.”

If you know of anyone who might benefit from joining the groups and for more information please call 0300 770 80 90and ask for Clare Savva or email on [email protected]