University of the Third Age becoming dementia aware

Working on the premise that older people can continue to lead an active, fulfilled “third age” of life, the organisation offers classes, workshops, social events and journeys of learning and discovery for retired and semi-retired people.

Members share their skills and life experiences, and learn from each other. And, proving it’s never too late to try new experiences, there’s a chance to take up a range of activities and interests, from archaeology to computer skills.

Now the Ilkley branch of the U3A is looking at how it can become a Dementia Friendly organisation.

Dementia and how to deal with it is the focus for members this month. Backed by Yorkshire and Humber Dementia Action Alliance, the group held a recent awareness talk, led by Alison Eagle of Dementia Friendly Ilkley. Another talk is planned for later this month.

Ilkley U3A trustees are working towards making the branch a dementia aware organisation, and is encouraging members to show respect and understanding to those with the condition in its many forms, and help to reduce the stigma and fear surrounding it. As well as raising awareness among members, it is hoped that people with dementia will be encouraged to take part in U3A activities and feel safe when joining in.

“With an ageing population, we are all likely sometime in the future to come into contact with friends or family living with dementia,” says Jean Smith, co-ordinator of the U3A Dementia Friendly Action Team.

“The talks are quite pioneering within U3A and will enable members to discover how they can make a difference to those living with dementia, and their carers, through a better understanding of the condition.”

The Bradford district’s Dementia Friendly (DF) initiative was launched in 2012 - one of the first in the UK. It became a three-pronged approach: developing DF communities; setting up a Bradford Dementia Action Alliance (DAA), working with organisations and businesses to develop DF action plans; and enabling people to become Dementia Friends. Organisations with DF programmes range from hairdressers and corner shops to emergency services.

The DAA looks at some of the barriers people with dementia face in public places and workplaces, and encourages organisations and businesses to be Dementia Friendly - which involves making staff aware of dementia and how to respond to different needs, and making places more accessible to people with dementia, carers and families. Through the DDA, people who have dementia visit public places and services, such as supermarkets, banks and buses, examining facilities and how staff interact with service users.

Led by Alzheimer Society, the DF programme is run in partnership with Bradford Council and local dementia champions, and recognises the part we can all play in creating safe, supportive communities for people with dementia.

* Ilkley U3A’s dementia awareness talk is in the Lofthouse Annexe, Ilkley, on Tuesday, March 21 at 1.30pm. For more information call Jean Smith on 07932773239 or email jeanmsmith50@hotmail.com

* For more about the nationwide Dementia Friendly programme visit alzheimers.org.uk