Dementia Support Group at Garforth NET

Garforth Neighbourhood Elders Team (NET) approached Five Towns Home Assistance in April 2019, to join forces for a new Dementia Support Group to be held at Vicar’s Court in Garforth.

The aim of the group is to help stimulate the minds of those with Dementia and/or Alzheimers and help them to reminisce of days gone-by with old fashion games, Bingo, singing and dancing. The day also includes a lunch and treats throughout the day and also gives carers and loved ones a break of up to 6 hours, once a week.

The Dementia Day was largely funded by Garforth NET, however Five Towns Home Assistance raised over £800 through a JustGiving page and arranged a Christmas Raffle, which included a large hamper, donated by Five Towns Home Assistance.

Some clients felt alone due to their Dementia and the Dementia Support Group has been seen to have made a huge difference. Everyone singing together and getting up and dancing is a wonderful experience for them and many haven’t had the opportunity to do it since they were young.

The benefits to socialisation and communication are also invaluable as seen by one client who learnt how to communicate again after the disease had taken her voice.

Garforth NET is at the heart of the LS25 and LS25 community and works across the thirteen (13) villages of East Leeds, providing support to older people, over the age of 60 and their carers.

NET’s main aims are to identify and respond to the needs of older people and their carers, reduce loneliness and isolation, promote healthy lifestyles, to enable older people to remain independently within their own community and to enjoy life. The group covers advice, assistance, social activities, befriending and one to one support.

Five Towns Home Assistance continues to support Garforth NET with funding wherever possible, helping prepare afternoon teas and assists with transport to the main hub as well as the running of the Dementia Group Day itself with Garforth NET.

Talk to one of our support team members to find out more.