Forget Me Not Activity Club
Stimulating cognitive and light physical activities
In Basildon, ‘Forget Me Not’ Cafe supports adults aged 55-90 with early-stage dementia by providing stimulating cognitive and light physical activities, to those individuals diagnosed with dementia, as well as their carer’s.
The group are always looking to try different activities and through the Find Your Active fund, Active Essex were able to offer members seated yoga sessions and hand massages, to help increase movement and reduce anxiety. There are many benefits to physical exercise, such as improving cognition. Recent studies have shown exercise may improve memory and slow down mental decline. It can provide opportunities for social interaction and reduce the feeling of isolation.
As most sessions took place seated, they wanted members to participate in something different and encourage more movement. With funding from Active Essex, they have been able to provide seated yoga, an inclusive activity that anyone can take part in. Within the older members there were a few issues that involved restricted movements, but this didn’t stop them from enjoying the sessions.
Forget Me Not Cafe pride themselves in their inclusive offer, and found that the sessions were also enjoyed by the carers and those that didn't suffer from dementia, but needed some social interaction. Forget Me Not Cafe doesn’t turn anyone away who wants to get involved and have become a pillar of their community for deconditioned adults.
