Day Centres
Care in a Day Centre enables the carer to have some short term regular respite from caring. The person with dementia attends for a period of 3 - 5 hours at a time, for a minimum of one day per week, including a meal and drinks. Often transport can be arranged. In order to access this service the person usually requires a referral through social services or health services. As their carer you can spend some time at the Day Centre while they get settled in and gain confidence.
Usual Activities at Day Centres
Most Day Centres have a running programme of activities geared to older people, those with dementia will be encouraged to get involved as much as they are able to. There will be activities which are specially designed for people with dementia, but there will also be many activities that everyone can get something from. Music, singing, arts and crafts are always popular, as they can be social activities, encourage skills of dexterity and allow for creativity. Singing is considered especially beneficial as it encourages social interaction, helps with better breathing and aids relaxation; and is great fun too! People with memory loss can often recall lyrics and tunes from songs learned many years ago so can get fully involved and can be great singers, this is excellent for their feelings of empowerment and wellbeing.
Some Day Centres also arrange outings to local places of interest, there may be practical considerations relating to people's safety and the numbers of support staff.
