A message from Innovations in Dementia who host the DEEP Network:
We want people with dementia to know that we will do our best to find ways to keep them connected and engaged over the months to come.
We know that people derive enormous benefit from the company of other people with dementia through groups that are members of DEEP. We will work with group facilitators to share ideas and encouragement to support people who may be feeling isolated and lonely, and missing their friends.
We will continue to use technology like ZOOM, where we can, to bring people together and work on projects we all care about. But we also want to reinstate the joy of communication through letter writing and phone calls. We are still finding our way at the moment, but will communicate regularly as our and your ideas develop. The community that is DEEP gives us a strong foundation to build upon.
We are expanding Dementia Diaries to give a voice to more diarists who will be part of a larger conversation between people with dementia and the wider world. You can help us to promote this.
We are all trying to find our way in a world which seems to have lost its familiar landmarks and moorings. We are trying to counter fear and uncertainty with hope, pragmatism, humour and courage.
People with dementia have been doing the very same thing every day for years. Coping with isolation, stress and uncertainty, and have much to teach the world. Your voices and experiences have never been more important.
Let’s all work together to rise above this challenge!
Stay safe
Steve, Rachael, Philly, Damian and Rachel N.
See Steve speaking here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=euOKWipoF5w&feature=youtu.be
Friday 20th March 2020
