Easy access in Blairgowrie for dementia support

AN easy access point in Blairgowrie for support and information to help people with dementia has proved a welcome addition to services provided locally.

The Strathmore Dementia Information Café in St Catharine’s Centre, George Street, is a joint project organised by Alzheimer Scotland, Perth and Kinross Social Work, NHS Tayside, and local volunteers.

It is held on the last Tuesday of the month, between 10am and 12 noon, and the next one is next week on April 24.

Fiona Matthews, Dementia Advisor, Alzheimer Scotland, said the drop-in café has information stands from various services that provide support and information to people with dementia, their families and carers. There is also plenty of time for people to meet up and have a chat over a cup of tea or coffee with other people with dementia and family members.

“Alzheimer Scotland believe that no one should go through dementia alone and Dementia Advisors can provide support and information to help you find the dementia support that you need by connecting you to local groups and services in your community,” said Fiona.

Manager of Strathmore Day Opportunities, Monika Mill, explained that their service supports people to attend various groups and activities, such as woodwork, tea dances, trips to the cinema etc, thus preventing social isolation and encouraging an active lifestyle. While older people are supported, their family members benefit from a regular break. The service also offers outreach programme.

Perth and Kinross Council Carers Social Work has an information stand at the café. Rosemary McLean supports carers throughout their caring role and also when this role ends, by helping carers maintain their physical and emotional health. Rosemary can assist carers to consider and accept a support plan which may include emergency planning, identify benefit maximisation and any training issues.

Nursing staff from the NHS Tayside Strathmore Dementia Service also attend the café.

The Dementia Service is open seven days per week, 365 days per year, and is available from 8.30am-8.30pm. They can be contacted on 01250 877843 or outwith these hours at NHS24, 08454 242424.

Following consultation with some of the people attending the café, there will be speakers at the café every second month, starting next week (April 24).

There will also be an opportunity for people to have a confidential memory test each month.

Further information about the café is available from Fiona Matthews on 01738 562358 or e-mail [email protected] or telephone Strathmore Day Opportunities on 01250 871938.