Dementia: Keeping Connections Strong

The last 14 months have been a testing time for us all, but imagine if you suffer from dementia.

For those who suffer with dementia, social connections and stimulation are vital. However, during lockdown, those have been in very scarce supply for most. This has led to an increase in people feeling lonely, depressed and isolated. A survey of 128 care homes led by Alzheimer's Society revealed nearly 80% had seen a deterioration in the health of their residents with dementia due to lack of social contact.

It has been a challenge for me to visit and check on my vulnerable clients during lockdown. Care homes were understandably reluctant to let any visitors attend in person during the pandemic. While Zoom or MS Teams calls may work for some, they present their own problems for those suffering with dementia. For example, being able to focus on a screen for long periods of time, being able to talk freely and making themselves understood may be much more challenging via