September marks World Alzheimer’s Month, a global campaign to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and support those affected by Alzheimer’s. This year, Brunelcare – an 84-year-old charity supporting older people across the Southwest – is taking part more than ever before with a series of activities, events, and training sessions throughout the month.
Across Brunelcare’s care homes, Extra Care Housing sites, colleagues, residents, and local communities are joining together for Alzheimer’s awareness initiatives. These include empathy suit demonstrations, memory walks, music and dog therapy, Q&A sessions, karaoke, discos, Mexican nights, and dementia coaching workshops.
Sandra Payne, Director of Nursing and Care Services at Brunelcare, said: “Alzheimer’s Awareness Month gives us the opportunity to focus on how, as a provider of services, we can support people living with dementia and their loved ones. We are using workshops and training sessions to raise awareness and provide practical advice on dementia skills.”
In addition to community events, Brunelcare has launched ITS into Practice (Focused Intervention Training and Support), a specialist training programme for care home staff. The initiative equips colleagues with the knowledge and skills to provide person-centred dementia care, particularly for those experiencing distress or behaviours that can impact wellbeing.
By investing in Alzheimer’s Month and running awareness events, alongside working closely with partners, Brunelcare is creating a more supportive and compassionate environment for the people it cares for, while increasing understanding and knowledge among colleagues and the wider community.
