Before we get started it’s important to remember that Re-engage is a charity for socially isolated and lonely people over the age of 75. Although it’s entirely possible that there are older people in Re-engage who are living with dementia, we’re not a dementia charity or experts in dementia. It’s very important for anyone who has regular problems with their memory or thinking to be assessed by a health professional.  

What is dementia? 

Dementia is a group of symptoms and is caused by different diseases that damage the brain. Dementia is not a natural part of ageing.

The symptoms get worse over time and include: 

• Thinking speed 
• Mental sharpness and quickness
• Language, such as using words incorrectly, or having trouble speaking 
• Understanding 
• Judgement 
• Mood 
• Movement 
• Difficulties doing daily activities 

Are Re-engage’s activities suitable for older people living with dementia? 

Although Re-engage’s activities aren’t specifically designed for people living with dementia, it’s very possible that older people living with dementia may also experience social isolation and loneliness. 

Older people living with dementia can continue to take part in Re-engage’s activities for as long as they continue to enjoy and benefit from them, but only if they’re able to without needing care and support from volunteers that isn’t within their volunteering role. 

What do you do if the service stops being suitable for an older person living with dementia? 

Because dementia is progressive and because there’s no cure it’s likely that there will come a time when a Re-engage activity will no longer be suitable for a person living with dementia.

If this happens, it’s very important that you contact one of the Re-engage team so they can provide you with support and make sure that the older person has the support and care that they need.  

Top tips for communicating with an older person living with dementia. 

• Speak slightly more slowly and use simple words and sentences.  
• Try to maintain eye contact because this will help the person focus on you.  
• Try to avoid sudden movements and tense facial expressions, as these may cause upset or distress.  
• Try not to stand too close or stand over someone when talking – it may be intimidating.  
• Make sure the older person is included in conversations. Try not to speak on their behalf, complete their sentences or allow others to exclude them.  
• Listen to the older person. Give them plenty of time and remove distractions like background noise.  
• Avoid asking too many questions and consider giving options or asking yes or no questions.  

Who can you contact for support for older people living with or caring for someone living with dementia? 

For help, support, and to learn more about dementia contact Alzheimer’s Society, DementiaUK or the NHS.