Memory problems addressed at mind awareness day in Sidmouth

ISSUES surrounding memory problems were well represented at an awareness morning in Sidmouth this week.

Representatives from local organisations provided information at What’s On Your Mind event at Sidmouth Methodist church hall on Tuesday, answering questions posed by those who attended.

Jan Holman, an occupational therapist at Sidmouth Victoria Hospital, gave a useful presentation on the various facets of memory.

She listed many useful tips to ensure people’s memory can be encouraged to provide support to the daily activities around the home.

Examples included leaving keys on the same hook so they can be easily found, ensuring the batteries in hearing aids are working to allow people to hear what is being said, and keeping spectacles clean, making reading easier.

Ian Skinner, chairman of Sidmouth Locality Health and Care team, was encouraged that representatives of Arcot House (Guinness Care & Support) and Malden House (Hartford Care) attended to advertise the day care facilities they can offer to provide short term breaks for carers.

Other organisations taking part were Sidmouth hospital, the Falls Clinic, Age UK, East Devon Alzheimer’s, Home Instead, Home Safeguard, Lions Club of Sidmouth, Sidmouth Help Link, Sid Vale Carers Support Group, Sid Valley Memory Cafe and Sidmouth Voluntary Services.

Leaflets were provided by Care Direct and the Parkinson’s Support Group.

Ian thanked all who attended and said, with backing from Sidmouth hospital, a similar event will be held in March 2012.