The veterans charity Erskine and the Sporting Memories Network have today announced plans that will see both organisations work together to help improve the lives of ex-Service personnel with dementia across Scotland.
Erskine has a total of 137 beds dedicated to ex-Service personnel with dementia including the Erskine Park Home, a 40 bed specialist dementia home. Sporting Memories Network has been established to promote and develop the use of sporting memories to improve the well being of people with dementia.
Studies have shown that the use of sporting memories allows people to build on and develop personalised memories. A significant change in interest levels and concentration has been noted for those taking part in the reminiscence groups. The project has been particularly useful for men, who are often reluctant to join in with group work. This is of real interest to Erskine as they operate five care homes with a mostly male population.
Erskine's Director of Care, Sue Robinson said "We are delighted to be working with Sporting Memories Network to further enhance the care we offer veterans with dementia. We have already trialled two reminiscence groups and the results and feedback has been extremely positive."
Tony Jameson Allen, Director of Sporting Memories Network said " The sports reminiscence sessions always provoke lots of conversation and debate among the groups. The personal stories and memories that come out are truly fascinating and we are excited at the prospect of working with Erskine`s residents, staff and volunteers
To find out more about Erskine visit their site at www.erskine.org.uk
