Help for dementia sufferers goes on the move

The University of Stirling has developed a new course for the carers of people with dementia to help increase the levels of physical activity they take part in.Following a successful pilot, the Meaningful Activities for People with Dementia level 1 SQA course is now set to be rolled out across the country.

The course offers training to care home staff, relatives and carers. The methods cannot cure dementia, but those behind the course believe raising participation in daily tasks like setting a table can help arrest the deterioration of those affected.

Sports development staff at Stirling created the four-day course working with the university’s Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC).

Many of the activities involved are not what people might normally think of as exercise, including such tasks as getting a newspaper or getting dressed, but course creator Nicola Redfern says all exercise is valid, even if it isn’t obviously sporty.

“In settings like a care home, you might find people no longer have the physical capacity to do these basic tasks, and they can become very dependent,” she said. “Research supports the idea that reintroducing such activities can help maintain the level of functioning of people with dementia.”

A group of 26 from across the UK completed the pilot course, which was oversubscribed, including Catherine Smith, activities co-ordinator at Menstrie House, a residential home in Clackmannanshire.

Previously employed as the cook, she has been running courses and classes for residents over the past 10 years. “We run a number of fitness programmes and have a new exercise bike,” she said, “But the activities I run have just been based on copying others and I was scared in case someone was hurt.

“This qualification gives me more confidence and an understanding of the physiological benefits for residents.”

Based around a gym instructor award, the course covers basic human anatomy and physiology, looking at circulation, bones and joints, the body’s energy systems and muscles. Further practical units focus on how to support a wide range of activities for people with dementia, from safely preparing a cup of tea on their own to chair-based aerobics.

While the course will primarily help healthcare professionals and care home staff, Ms Redfern, a sports participation officer in the department of sports studies, believes it can also empower family members caring for their loved ones.

Professor June Andrews, DSDC director, said: “Keeping active helps people with dementia sleep better, eat better and feel better, and could even reduce the need for medication.

“This course shows things that are practical and useful, and encourages staff to get on and implement what works.”