Living Well with Dementia runs several weekly classes which are welcoming to people with dementia. All classes are led by trained facilitators and supported by a friendly team of volunteers. The importance of social inclusion cannot be over emphasised for people living with a dementia diagnosis and all our classes give clients and carers an opportunity to meet with others in an atmosphere of fun and enjoyment leading to a greater sense of wellbeing and support. Each class runs for one hour with and additional half hour for tea/coffee and chat. We are always delighted to welcome new members to our classes. The intended outcome for all our groups is to:
• Encourage those who are living with dementia to engage again in an enjoyable relaxing activity without feeling stigmatised or different.
• Support clients and family members by providing a stimulating and enjoyable outlet where friendship and support are key.
• To encourage and support social connection for those with a dementia diagnosis.
• To create a sense of belonging to and being a part of something for people who are feeling isolated and forgotten.
• Give those with a dementia diagnosis the opportunity to play an active role and contribute to the cultural life of their community.
Many bridge players step back from their favourite pastime when diagnosed with dementia. Bridge is a skill which remains with many people even with moderate to advanced dementia. We would encourage people to stay connected with their own club. Where this is not possible, Living Well with Dementia run a small bridge club, supported by volunteers.
Where: St Thomas Community Centre, Fosters Avenue, Stillorgan
When: Tuesday Afternoon 2:00pm – 3:30pm.
Cost: Suggested donation of €3 – €5 towards room hire and tea/coffee
Contact: Mary Spain on 086-0418450 or Angie Lennon on 087-1090106
Living Well with Dementia runs a weekly ‘Movement to Music’ Class which is led by Robert Connors, Artistic Director of the Dance Theatre of Ireland. The therapeutic effects of music and dance have been shown to increase self-awareness, encourage social interaction, help with depression, provide fun and healthy self-expression, maintain and, at times, improve memory and cognitive function. Dance/movement offers individuals the opportunity to be truly present, to engage in their senses, and to tap into their independence, individuality, and self-awareness. This is a very sociable and uplifting group with lots of joy and laughter.
Where: Community Centre, Church of the Holy Family, Bakers Corner, Kill O’the Grange
When: Wednesday afternoons 1:45pm – 3:15pm
Cost: €5 donation per class
Contact: Mary Spain on 086-0418450 or Angie Lennon on 087-1090106
Research suggests that listening to or singing songs can provide emotional and behavioural benefits for people with various types of dementia. Musical memories are often preserved because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease.
Music has been shown to:
• Relieve stress.
• Reduce anxiety and depression.
• Reduce agitation.
The Sweet Memories choir is particularly welcoming to people affected by dementia. Participating in our choir can lift mood, provide cognitive stimulation, and support social interaction. The purpose of our choir is to give people an opportunity to come together in a relaxed environment and reconnect through music and song. The choir is led by choral director Gerry Noonan who is supported by our wonderful musicians Jennifer, Jenny, Deirdre and David.
Where: St Raphaela’s Convent, Upper Kilmacud Road, Stillorgan
When: Saturday mornings: 11-12.30pm
Cost: Suggested donation of €3 -€5 towards room hire and tea/coffee
Contact: Mary Spain on 086-0418450 or Angie Lennon on 087-1090106
Our Art class provides an opportunity for participants to engage in meaningful self- expression, pleasure, and enjoyment as well as in enhanced communication with others in the group. It can put people in touch with their life’s memories and experiences. Art is often a powerful method to express the physical changes as well as the emotional difficulties in relation to dementia.
Benefits of participating in an art group include:
• Increased brain stimulation
• Improved memory
• Provides a sense of achievement.
• Allows individuals to express their creativity.
• Boosts physical strength.
• Enhances mood and general wellbeing.
Our art class is facilitated by our wonderful teacher Caroline Hyland who is also a trained Occupational Therapist. Caroline’s commitment, creativity and passion for her work is exemplary and she creates an atmosphere of joy and fun each week.
Where: Patrician Community Centre, Stillorgan
When: Friday Morning 11:0am – 12:30pm
Cost: €5 donation per class
To find out more about our activity groups please contact Mary Spain on 086-0418450 or Angie Lennon on 087-1090106.
This is a programme of enjoyable physical activities to promote health and autonomy. The programme is tailored to individual needs and abilities and is delivered by Siel Bleu Ireland, whose vision is to create a society where everyone can experience the benefits of physical activity, irrespective of social, cultural or economic background. Exercise can improve your physical fitness and help maintain strong muscles and flexible joints and may also reduce the risk of falls by improving strength and balance.
Where: St Thomas Community Centre, Fosters Avenue, Stillorgan
When: Tuesday Afternoon 2:00pm – 3:30pm.
Cost: Suggested donation of €3 – €5 towards room hire and tea/coffee
Contact: Mary Spain on 086-0418450 or Angie Lennon on 087-1090106
