Every May, Dementia Action Week shines a spotlight on the importance of understanding, supporting, and championing those living with dementia. At Ashberry Healthcare, we’re proud to be part of this movement, and this year’s celebrations across our homes were nothing short of inspiring.
Every year, Dementia Action Week serves as a crucial reminder of the challenges faced by those living with dementia and the importance of early diagnosis and support. In the UK, 1 in 3 people living with dementia lack a diagnosis, missing out on vital care and services that could enhance their quality of life. Alarmingly, over 60% of adults are unaware that vision problems can be a symptom, and 1 in 10 can’t name a single common sign, highlighting the need for greater public awareness. The cost of dementia care in the UK has already reached £42 billion annually, with families shouldering the majority of this burden—projected to rise to £90 billion by 2040. By celebrating Dementia Action Week with heartfelt activities and community engagement, our homes aim to bridge this gap, ensuring every individual receives the support and understanding they deserve. (information found on Alzheimer's UK)
Blaenos House Nursing Home
At Blaenos House, we kicked off the week with a truly touching reminiscence activity. Ivy, wellbeing lead, brought in cherished family heirlooms, a wedding dress worn by her mother and her baby shawl and cardigan, now over 60 years old and passed through three generations. These precious items sparked heartfelt memories among residents. Carole shared stories of making two red velvet bridesmaid dresses for her own wedding, while Irwin fondly recalled travelling by train to London and catching a boat to Belgium for his honeymoon.
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Our creative residents also painted beautiful Forget Me Not flowers—symbols of remembrance and love—adding the perfect touch to our upcoming dementia-themed photo shoot.
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Music for Health with Carl kept everyone active, reminding us all that our residents can definitely show the youngsters a thing or two on the dance floor! And to top it off, we enjoyed a themed dinner featuring retro basket meals and old-school fizzy drinks—vintage lime, raspberry, and the always popular cream soda.
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Broomy Hill Nursing Home
At Broomy Hill, Dementia Action Week was marked by a special event led by our dedicated Wellbeing Team and Dementia Lead, Charlotte. Together, they welcomed families and friends to explore the positive steps we’re taking to enhance the lives of those living with dementia. From new person-centred activities and therapies to ongoing staff training, the afternoon was filled with inspiration and collaboration. Charlotte shared insights into her role, the specialist training she delivers, and her exciting plans for the future. Over tea, cake and conversation, we gathered ideas and celebrated the incredible work already underway. They touched on how they have introduced doll therapy into dementia care.
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The Broomy Wellbeing team crafted handmade forget-me-not pin badges in their own free time to support Dementia Action Week. Each badge was made to help raise awareness and fundraise for the Alzheimer's Society, supporting their vital work and ground breaking research into dementia care and treatment.
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Holmer Court Care Home
Our team at Holmer Court showed their dedication to raising awareness by donning beautiful new tops—bright and floral, in honour of the symbolic forget-me-not. We also hosted a wonderful Tea Dance, welcoming around 50 guests from the local community. It was a day filled with smiles, dancing, and connection, all while raising £200 for Dementia Matters Herefordshire. A special thank you to Star, our fantastic singer, whose performance lit up the room and made the day truly unforgettable.
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Meadowview Care Home
At Meadowview, we embraced creativity with a beautiful Paint & Sip session. Residents, staff, and visitors enjoyed a relaxed afternoon of painting Forget Me Not flowers, laughter, and conversation—a perfect way to celebrate the week’s theme.
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We also welcomed Ian from Music and Mind, whose session brought music, joy, and connection to everyone. Residents, staff, and families alike were up singing, dancing, and sharing the magic that only music can bring.
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A shared commitment
Across all our homes, Dementia Action Week reminded us that small actions can make a big difference. Whether through creative arts, sharing memories, or simply being there for one another, our teams continue to build communities where every individual is valued, supported, and celebrated.
Together, we’re proud to be part of the movement to make every day brighter for those living with dementia.
If you would like more information on dementia care at Ashberry- enquire here.