The Alzheimers Society Olivia McLennan Outreach and Support Worker Southwark Branch ________________________________________________________________________________________ alzheimers.org.uk

Our vision Our vision is of a radically improved world for people with dementia. A world where they have their rights recognised, where they can fully contribute to family life and where they can live with dignity, free from discrimination. A world where they and those who care for them, have their needs fully met. A world, ultimately, where dementia can be defeated. ________________________________________________________________________________________ alzheimers.org.uk

What we do Campaigning and raising awareness Through a combination of: Detailed policy analysis Lobbying Influencing Direct action ________________________________________________________________________________________ alzheimers.org.uk

What we do Training and development services The Society is committed to ensuring that people with dementia receive the best possible quality care and support. We provide training for health and care professionals and publish a wide range of training materials and books. For more information: ________________________________________________________________________________________ alzheimers.org.uk

What we do Research Quality Research in Dementia Programme (QRD) £1.5 million invested each year Three key areas: cause, care and cure Actively involves people with dementia and their carers ________________________________________________________________________________________ alzheimers.org.uk

________________________________________________________________________________________ alzheimers.org.uk What we do Support Services The Help LineThe Branches The Factsheets On line 24/7

Southwark Branch ________________________________________________________________________________________ alzheimers.org.uk Who we are A small, but dedicated team comprising: Branch Development Manager Outreach and Support Workers Branch Development Committee Volunteers

Southwark Branch ________________________________________________________________________________________ alzheimers.org.uk What we do Outreach information and support service Two monthly carers support groups Memory group for people in the early stages of dementia Weekly Healthy Ageing Café Weekly drop-in service Carers education programme Monthly outreach roadshow Quarterly newsletter Befriending service Access to the dementia knowledge centre

Southwark Branch ________________________________________________________________________________________ alzheimers.org.uk Focus on the Healthy Ageing Café Weekly drop-in social café for older people with mental health difficulties, including dementia Provides a social environment, activities and a sandwich lunch! Music therapy session once a month

Why Music Therapy? ________________________________________________________________________________________ alzheimers.org.uk Our emotional response to music is processed by the amygdala Different types of music and song can stimulate pleasant emotions and reduce negative ones such as fear, distress and depression Amygdala is one of the last parts of the brain to be affected in Alzheimers Disease: - music therapy offers potential for communication with people with dementia when language is no longer possible

Why Music Therapy? ________________________________________________________________________________________ alzheimers.org.uk Interaction with other people - reduced risk of isolation Containment and expression of inner feelings, especially if verbal communication is failing Reminiscence, identity and empowerment in safe environment Great fun!

Southwark Branch ________________________________________________________________________________________ alzheimers.org.uk Contact us For more information or to make a referral: Alzheimers Society, Southwark Branch Stones End Day Centre 11 Scovell Road London SE1 1QQ

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