Horsham dementia respite service to hold open day for local residents

Alzheimer’s Society’s Horsham Sunday Oasis club is inviting local residents to come along to the service on where there will be an opportunity to speak to Alzheimer’s Society staff and volunteers and find out more about the group in an informal and relaxed atmosphere.

Elisa Vaughan, Sussex Locality Manager for Alzheimer’s Society said: “85 per cent of people with dementia say they struggle with isolation, loneliness and depression.

“The respite group provides a social atmosphere that aims to help people with dementia keep physically and mentally active as well as helping people express themselves.

“This type of service can make a huge difference to people’s sense of wellbeing. Attendees can get involved in all sorts of activities including art and crafts, reminiscence, walks and baking.”

The event will take place from 2-6pm at Age UK, Lavinia House, Dukes Square, Horsham. It is open to all people with dementia and their carers.

Oasis club is a fortnightly service that provides respite to carers and offers people with dementia an opportunity to meet new people and get involved in stimulating activities in a friendly and safe environment. The service is run by trained staff and supported by volunteers. People who attend are able to take part in a range of activities including hand and nail care, games and quizzes, musical entertainment and refreshments of sandwiches, cream tea and homemade cakes.

“The service enables people with dementia to meet other people in a similar situation whilst also having fun and trying out new things,” continued Elisa.

“It also means that those caring for someone at home can have some much-needed time for themselves.”

There are 3,391 people living with dementia in Horsham and Mid Sussex, yet only 1,467 of those have a diagnosis.

The Horsham Sunday Oasis club runs on the second and fourth Sundays of the month from 10am to 5.30pm at Age UK, Lavinia House, Horsham.

A referral is required in the first instance with an assessment to ascertain suitability and eligibility. The cost of the service is charged at £15.00 per day and this includes a two course meal prepared by our cook along with afternoon tea and refreshments served throughout the day.

As well as the Oasis Weekend Respite Service in Horsham and one in Crawley, Alzheimer’s Society in West Sussex North runs a number of services including Sussex Helpline, Carers Support Groups, Dementia Support Workers, Memory Assessment Service – West Sussex, Service User Involvement Officer and Dementia Cafes.

For more information, please contact 01403 213017, or visit www.alzheimers.org.uk/localinfo