Dementia affects people in many ways. But when brains don’t work properly loving relationships built up often over many years may suffer.
We all probably know of couples who, after dementia has started to affect one of other, lose the status quo they have created between them. And we also probably know of partners who get frustrated with their other half, or who become ashamed of the dementia, or who simply reach the end of their tether in providing care.
‘Getting Along’ is a short programme of sessions for couples affected by dementia, who are having difficulties in their relationships. Damian Murphy devised the programme, and is one of the several facilitators across East Yorkshire, where the course started and has subsequently has been commissioned.
A key element of Getting Along is allowing ‘space’ for couples to air their often pent up thoughts and feelings, to each other, in a non judgmental and ‘safe’ situation. The facilitator invites each to reflect, to express their real feelings, and to learn and understand each other, and the affect of dementia on their relationship.
Damian has often found that couples have the answers themselves, and they find these answers because they allow themselves to be completely honest with each other.
Those of us who joined a facilitators’ Zoom meeting with Damian recently were pretty much blown away by the insight that Getting Along brings to couples, and by Damian’s own refreshing insight into relationships affected by dementia.
We think it’s the best thing since sliced bread, and like Damian would like to see it taken up by dementia diagnosis and support services across the UK.
Here’s a link to a short film about Getting Along. Do watch it. https://youtu.be/gEe9NbCq2Pg
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