dementia – Page 2 – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

New charity partnership to take action against dementia with giant inflatable brain tour

An exciting new charity partnership will help take action against dementia across Scotland and beyond with a giant inflatable brain tour as part of an innovative brain health programme.

Alzheimer Scotland has been selected as the Charity Partner for 2025/26 by Scotmid, which is Scotland’s largest independent co-operative and includes Semichem, Lake & Dales Coop, Scotmid Funerals and Fosters Funeral Directors.

Studies indicate that up to 45% of dementia cases worldwide may be preventable, often through making simple lifestyle changes.

As part of its ambitious plans for the 12-month partnership, Alzheimer Scotland will spread this prevention message by investing in a giant, walk-through inflatable brain – named Babs the Brain in honour of the late Dame Barbara Windsor, who died in 2020 of Alzheimer’s disease.

”Babs” will embark on a Big Brain Tour of Scotland, visiting stores as well as community venues.

At each stop, people can step inside the inflatable to learn how different areas of the brain work, enjoy interactive activities, and make their own personal brain health pledge.

The partnership will raise vital funds for brain health initiatives across Scotland, while Alzheimer’s Society will provide support to reach communities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The partnership was officially launched at Scotmid’s HQ in Newbridge, Edinburgh, where colleagues and pupils from Hillwood Primary School were among the first to experience Babs the Brain.

Dame Barbara’s widower Scott Mitchell attended the event and has given the project his full support.

Henry Simmons, Alzheimer Scotland’s Chief Executive, said: “Alzheimer Scotland is delighted to be embarking on this charity partnership with Scotmid. We see this as the start of a shared mission to empower people of all ages to protect their brain health, reduce their risk of dementia, and help make sure that nobody faces dementia alone.

“This partnership gives us a unique opportunity to expand the work we do by finding creative ways to empower communities across Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland to look after their brain health.

“Not only will we raise vital funds, we will also leave a lasting legacy beyond this partnership of healthier habits, stronger connections, and better awareness of dementia prevention.”

Karen Scott, Scotmid’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re truly delighted to join forces with Alzheimer Scotland. This partnership isn’t just about fundraising – it’s about coming together with our communities to create real, positive change.

“By working hand in hand, we hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by dementia across Scotland.”

Scott Mitchell, who was appointed People’s Champion for the Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Goals programme, said: “Babs the Brain and the brain health prevention work Alzheimer Scotland will be doing alongside it is a wonderful legacy for Barbara and something she would be proud to put her name to.

“I have no doubt she would have treated us to one of her famous giggles for the name alone!”

Other initiatives planned for the coming year include in-store ‘brain healthy’ shopping experiences, from recipe cards to highlighting ‘brain-boosting choices’.

Funds raised will also support Alzheimer Scotland’s STARS: My Amazing Brain schools project, which brings brain health education to children and families nationwide.

Annual Showcase Event: The Forget Me Notes project

TUESDAY 2nd SEPTEMBER at ST BRIDE’S CENTRE

The Forget Me Notes project, an established Edinburgh based charity which offers a wide range of musical entertainment, therapy and support to those who are living with, or who are affected by dementia, will be hosting its annual showcase event on Tuesday 2nd September at St Bride’s Centre, Orwell Terrace.

The showcase will feature a number of drop-in events between 1045am and 2pm, enabling those in attendance to learn more about the activities of the charity, including an introduction to its volunteer project and an opportunity to meet the chief executive of Forget Me Notes along with one of the charity’s trustees.

Music is at the core of Forget Me Notes’ activities and this will be provided throughout the event by both Kenny Vass and his band along with a series of musical interludes from the various musicians and singers who perform for the charity on a regular basis at care homes, day centres, community centres and other venues, including a fortnightly concert at the Saughton Park bandstand.

Admission to the showcase is free and lunch will be provided.

Later in the day, starting at 6.30pm, there will be a live performance from Kenny’s band featuring music from the1950s and 1960s. Dressing up to reflect the fashions of that period is encouraged (although not essential).

The evening event is ticketed, with tickets available from eventbrite.com at a cost of £10 for adults and £5 for children.

Further details regarding the activities of the Forget Me Notes project and be found at www.forgetmenotes.org.uk

Meeting Centres: Help to develop a dementia-friendly Social Club

MONDAY 30 JUNE 10.30 – 1pm at NORTH EDINBURGH ARTS

BOOK YOUR PLACE:

Email: fionab@northedinburgharts.co.uk

The Eric Liddell Community shines a light on the invaluable role unpaid carers play in supporting loved ones living with dementia

During Carers Week 2025, The Eric Liddell Community spotlighted the invaluable role unpaid carers play in supporting loved ones living with dementia.

Through its dedicated Carers Programme and specialist Dementia Day Care Service, the Edinburgh-based charity is providing essential respite, meaningful connection, and personalised support for carers across the city.

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be emotionally demanding and socially isolating. According to Carers UK, eight in ten carers regularly experience feelings of loneliness or anxiety.

To help support unpaid carers across Edinburgh, The Eric Liddell Community delivers a range of inclusive, practical, and therapeutic services that aim to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing, and provide vital moments of rest and relief.

John MacMillan, CEO of The Eric Liddell Community, said: “Carers Week was a chance for us to honour the incredible role unpaid carers play in supporting their loved ones living with dementia, while also reaffirming our commitment to supporting them.

“At The Eric Liddell Community, we’re proud to offer services that not only provide vital respite, but also help reduce isolation, and offer a supportive community with others in a similar position.

“Through our Carers Programme, Dementia Day Care Service, and initiatives like Liddell Lions and Eric’s Escapes, we aim to create to provide companionship and a break from the isolating realities many carers face.”

The Carers Programme is more than just a series of activities – it’s a lifeline, a place where unpaid carers can recharge, rediscover themselves, and build lasting connections.

Whether it’s the joy of music, the rhythm of dance, or the quiet creativity of the arts, every session offers a chance to step away from daily pressures and embrace moments of renewal. Carers can also develop digital skills, experience holistic therapies, and join social gatherings that remind them they are not alone.

The programme’s impact is best seen in the story of Mary and John, both in their late 80s and living with dementia. As their needs grew, their daughters sought support from The Eric Liddell Community.

What followed was nothing short of transformative.

John rekindled his passion for gardening, finding peace among flowers and fresh earth, while Mary, once hesitant, discovered confidence through music, proudly contributing to daily activities with a newfound spark.

“We feel so lucky we found you,” their daughter shared, capturing the deep gratitude felt by so many families touched by the programme.

With growing demand, The Eric Liddell Community remains committed to expanding its services—ensuring every unpaid carer in Edinburgh has access to a compassionate, uplifting community.

To learn more about the Carers Programme and other available services, visit:

www.ericliddell.org.

Carers Week: Playlist For Life

Caring for someone living with dementia can be hard

Personal playlists however can give dementia carers, who are often relatives or friends respite, by helping to reduce symptoms including distress, anxiety, loss of communication and low mood.

Want to know how to make a playlist? Join our free webinar for family and friends this Thursday to learn how:

https://www.playlistforlife.org.uk/…/how-to-make-a…/…

Specsavers Home Visits team in Edinburgh take action to support customers with dementia

TO coincide with Dementia Action Week (May 19 – 25), the Specsavers Home Visits team in Edinburgh has taken vital steps to support its customers living with dementia.

The full team has recently become qualified Dementia Friends, after completing a training course to professionally care for the eye health and hear care of customers who have the condition.

The Specsavers Home Visits team provides care to customers who, due to a multitude of reasons, are unable to pay a visit to a high street store to receive eye health and hearing services.

Lynne Seebaluck, director at Specsavers Home Visits that covers Edinburgh, the Lothians and the Scottish Borders, said: “By becoming Dementia Friends, our team feels more confident to ensure any customers living with dementia feel safe and are looked after in a sensitive way.

“We’re always keen to go the extra mile and support our local community, especially as we’re out visiting those directly in it.”

For more information about the Specsavers Home Visits team, visit:

https://www.specsavers.co.uk/home-eye-tests/request-a-free-home-visit

or call 0808 239 4492 to book a home visit.

The Eric Liddell Community drives effort to build a more dementia-friendly Edinburgh

This Dementia Awareness Week, the Edinburgh-based care charity will host an expert-led evening event and a business breakfast to inspire local residents and businesses to become more dementia-friendly.

As part of Dementia Awareness Week this May, The Eric Liddell Community is taking a proactive step in supporting individuals living with dementia and their carers.

The charity will host two engaging events: a dementia-focused evening on Thursday, 22nd May (6.30pm–8.30pm) and a business breakfast on Wednesday, 4th June (8am–9am). Both events will be held at The Eric Liddell Community in Edinburgh.

The Thursday evening event will welcome guest speaker Jan Beattie, one of Scotland’s foremost voices in dementia care and policy.

A trained social worker with over 30 years of experience in regeneration, community development, and workforce transformation, Jan most recently served as Professional Advisor in Dementia to the Scottish Government.

In this role, she helped shape and deliver Everyone’s Story, Scotland’s national dementia strategy and its first two-year delivery plan.

Jan brings a wealth of knowledge and deep empathy to the subject. She commented: “It’s a genuine privilege to support The Eric Liddell Community during Dementia Awareness Week. Their person-centred, compassionate approach represents the very best of dementia care.

“Everything they do is grounded in strong values, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Edinburgh. That’s what makes their work so impactful, and why I’m proud to stand alongside them in their mission to make our city more inclusive and supportive for those living with dementia.”

On Wednesday, 4th June, the charity will host a Dementia Friendly Community Business Breakfast from 8am–9am.

Local businesses are invited to join for tea, coffee, and pastries while learning practical tips on becoming more dementia-informed. The event will also include a chance to hear about the support services offered by the charity and to connect with like-minded professionals committed to inclusivity.

John MacMillan, CEO of The Eric Liddell Community, commented: “Creating a dementia-friendly Edinburgh doesn’t just start in hospitals and care homes – it begins in cafés, shops, offices, and neighbourhoods.

“At The Eric Liddell Community, we believe that by raising awareness and equipping people with the right tools, we can transform everyday environments into inclusive, supportive spaces.

“These events are a chance for all of us – whether you’re a business owner, neighbour, friend, or family member – to play a part in making Edinburgh a more understanding and compassionate place for those living with dementia.”

Caroline Heenan, Day Care Manager at The Eric Liddell Community, added: “Every day we see the difference a welcoming environment can make. Whether it’s a familiar face, a friendly voice, or a safe and engaging space, these small things are vital.

“Events like this help us share what we’ve learned and bring more people into our mission of making Edinburgh more Dementia-Friendly.”

The month of May will also see the launch of The Eric Liddell community’s Spring Appeal, which this year will focus on the vital work undertaken by unpaid carers, and will highlight the positive impact The Eric Liddell Community’s Befriending Project has had on the health and wellbeing of those people caring for individuals living with dementia.

For further information, please go to: Get Involved – The Eric Liddell Community.

Tomorrow: Local Care Home opens it’s doors to community

Strachan House care home in Blackhall have invited members of the local community to their monthly dementia friendly Community café.

Taking place every last Friday of the month at 2pm, guests will have a chance to meet carers supporting others living with dementia.

Free to all, the community café at the home provides a welcoming atmosphere for everyone to enjoy engaging topics. Visitors to the café have the opportunity to meet adorable animals, enjoy live music and activities as well as receiving support with questions, queries and guidance around dementia diagnosis and next steps.

During the session, guests will also have a chance to meet the team at the home, to discuss any questions they might have about care.

As per any event at Strachan House visitors will be able to eat drink and be merry!

General Manager Frances Fisher said: “We’re really looking forward to making more friends in our local community. The more support we can provide to each other, the better.

“Our team here at Strachan House are wonderful and are always looking forward to welcoming others into the home. If anyone is unable to make it on the day but would like to pop in for a tour and a cup of tea, our doors are always open.”

Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering high-quality care across its care homes and hospitals.

Strachan House provides residential care, nursing and dementia care for 83 residents from respite care to long term stays.

Dementia-friendly events and opportunities in Edinburgh and the Lothians

The Scottish Government, in partnership with COSLA, recently launched a new campaign to challenge the stigma surrounding dementia. The drive encourages people to continue doing the things they always did with friends or relatives diagnosed with dementia, highlighting that these everyday activities can help them stay well for longer.

Staying connected to communities can also play a key role in helping people with dementia remain socially active and engaged. Across Scotland, there are numerous services, groups and activities designed to provide enjoyment and support.

For people in Edinburgh and the Lothians, opportunities and events include:

Deepness Dementia-Friendly Arts Festival in Edinburgh – taking place from Monday 11 November to Thursday 14 November, the Dementia Arts Festival, will showcase the best of music, theatre, poetry and film, all produced by those diagnosed with dementia. For more information, visit: deepnessdementiaarts.co.uk/
Museum Socials at the National Museum of Scotland – each month a different museum theme is explored through interactive activities, including curator talks and creative crafts. For more information, visit: nms.ac.uk/events/museum-socials
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Dementia Friendly Garden Social – monthly meetings in the purpose-built Garden of Tranquility with refreshments and activities provided. It’s an opportunity for guests to find out about how the garden works. For more information, visit: rbge.org.uk/whats-on/dementia-friendly-garden-social/57082
Festival Theatre Edinburgh, Brew & Blether – a free monthly social gathering for people living with dementia and their friends and family to come together for tea, biscuits and a chat. For more information, visit: capitaltheatres.com/whats-on/all-shows/dementia-friendly-a-brew-and-blether/2072
National Galleries Scotland, Gallery Socials – monthly sessions where attendees, led by artists, will have a chance to take part in a light-touch art activity and take a tour. In November, the event at the Portrait Gallery is a celebration of 40 years of Scotland’s Photography Collection. For more information, visit nationalgalleries.org/event/gallery-social-dementia-friendly-celebrating-40-years-of-scotlands-photography-collection
Dementia-friendly East Lothian –a community organisation which supports social groups and activities for people living with dementia including care-partners, families and friends. They hold regular workshops, activities and trainings. For more information, visit dfel.org.uk/
Singing For Health, Whitburn Bowling Club, West Lothian – fortnightly informal sing-a-long with refreshments as part of a partnership between Alzheimer Scotland and the Ageing Well project. For more information, visit: roseberycentre.org.uk/
The Heart Dementia Meeting Centre, Newhaven – a weekly social club on a Wednesday at 10.30am, for people living with mild to moderate dementia including those newly diagnosed or curious about cognitive decline. An opportunity to get creative whilst speaking to like-minded people. For more information, visit: heartofnewhaven.co.uk/The-Heart-Dementia-Meeting-Centre.php

This is just a selection of the creative opportunities and activities available. For more ideas of things to do or places to visit, search dementia friendly at aliss.org (A Local Information System for Scotland).

Dementia affects an estimated 90,000 people in Scotland and 3,000 of whom are under the age of 65. Created in collaboration with a National Dementia Lived Experience Panel, the Rethink Dementia campaign emphasises the importance of maintaining relationships with those living with dementia.

Research has shown that making this effort to stay in contact with individuals and include them in social activities can help alleviate symptoms of depression, agitation, sleep disturbance, anxiety and apathy that can often come with dementia.

Dr Tom Russ, an NHS Consultant Old Age Psychiatrist and Researcher at The University of Edinburgh, said, “Over the past 20 years, I’ve engaged with hundreds of people who have been diagnosed with dementia, and it’s often the case that those individuals will withdraw from social activities, which can negatively impact their overall wellbeing.

“If you know of a friend or relative who has been diagnosed with dementia, it’s really important to stay in touch and help your loved one to maintain their usual social activities, or even try something new together.

“The Rethink Dementia campaign is sharing such a crucial message around the importance of social connection and I hope it provides positive action steps for family and friends of those living with dementia.”

For more information around supporting someone with a dementia diagnosis, please visit NHSInform.scot/RethinkDementia.