Following the shining example of supermarkets, surgeries and shopping malls across the UK, The Malden Centre (Blagdon Road, New Malden, KT3 4TA) will be showing its support for an inspiring awareness campaign by offering a unique range of dementia-friendly classes.

As part of Dementia Awareness Week 2017 (14-20 May) the Alzheimer’s Society is asking everyone across England, Wales and Northern Ireland to UNITE against dementia – and the team at The Malden Centre, is very proud to be playing its part.

Starting on Monday (15 May) there will be an exciting programme of activities available for people living with the condition, including: 

15th May - Swimming Session 9-10am
15th May - Sewing 1-3pm
15th May- Pottery 1-3pm
16th May- Singing 2.45-3.45pm
17th May- Painting 10-12pm
17th May -Yoga 3.15-4pm
19th May- Flower Arranging 1-3pm
17th May -Seated Exercise Class 2.30-3.30pm

Other local centres taking part in the initiative include Kingfisher, Tolworth Rec and Kingsmeadow.

Adult Education Manager, Sue Wilson, says; “Here at the Malden Centre, we recognise that classes and group activities can be daunting and sometimes distressing for people with Alzheimers’ but that doesn't mean that they should be excluded from these fun and sociable experiences. We really wanted to provide something that would reach out to members of our community who are affected by Alzheimers’ - so what better time than during the Alzheimer’s Society Annual Awareness Week.

She adds; “We’d love to welcome lots of people to come along and take part next week – so please do give me a call if you have any questions about the activities and what they will involve.”

Statistics and research suggests that dementia is set to become the 21st century's biggest killer - but awareness and understanding remains low and many families continue to face it alone. However, the Alzheimer’s Society offers invaluable support and advice – so please do visit www.alzheimers.org.uk for further details.

And, for more information about the Dementia-friendly classes (15-19 May) and to book a place, please contact Reception on 020 8336 7770

Article supplied by Jo H