Community Resource’s Care and Share Programme Supporting Dementia-Related Frailty in Shropshire
Community Resource’s dedicated Care and Share Programme is designed to address the complex needs of elderly individuals grappling with dementia-related frailty and their dedicated caregivers, in Shropshire’s rural communities.
Their initiative responds to the pressing challenges faced by a population of over 79,000 elderly residents, where the aging demographic, compounded by rural isolation, accentuates the difficulties of aging and the heightened vulnerability associated with dementia-related frailty.
Dementia-related frailty significantly impacts the wellbeing of affected individuals, contributing to a decline in physical abilities and heightened susceptibility to health complications. Community Resource’s Care and Share Programme serves as a lifeline for these individuals, offering bi-weekly meetups across three locations in the County. These sessions provide a sanctuary of mutual support, tailored cognitive stimulation, gentle physical activity, and social interaction specifically designed to accommodate the frailty often associated with dementia.
Moreover, the Programme offers essential respite to caregivers, acknowledging their increased responsibilities and the emotional and physical toll associated with caring for loved ones experiencing dementia-related frailty.
Support from the Elise Pilkington Trust will ensure the continuation and expansion of Community Resource’s Care and Share Programme over the next year, covering essential costs such as venue hire, recruitment, retention of specialised volunteers, and cognitive therapy materials, such as games and crafts. EPT’s support will enable Community Resource to offer 22 Care and Share sessions in Shropshire over the next 12 months.