Many of my clients have Dementia, all at differing levels along their Dementia Pathway. Over the past three years however, I have sadly seen the impact that Covid has had on people’s mental ill health. It has been cause for further upset and devastation to their daily way of life, with many requiring a great deal more support. Be it in their day-to-day way of life, or for special family events.
I feel privileged every day to be supporting people requiring my services, and in whatever capacity is required. More recently, I was asked to chaperone one of my clients to the wedding of her best friend's granddaughter. The ladies had been best friends for over 70 years. Each of them now with a diagnosis of Dementia, still however, with a zest for life in equal measure.
It was an honour therefore, to be able to say yes and chaperone these two amazing ladies to such a wonderful event. I could clearly see the sparkle in their eyes, as they spoke about old times as school friends, of their growing up years together, and obviously of the stunning event that they were both celebrating, with family today. Equally happy, and worry free, were the family members/friends who were thrilled that these two ladies could both be there to join in and celebrate such a joyous occasion.
Weddings may be one of the most important occasions in a family's social calendar. They are naturally beautiful, happy occasions, but they can also be tiring, and some what of a marathon, dependent on the length of day ahead of you.
Have you imagined therefore, how tiring the day may become if you were supporting a loved one with Dementia at such a special occasion.
If you currently care for a loved one with Dementia, you will be constantly aware, of the difficulties, that living with Dementia can bring. The natural flow of a day doesn’t always go to plan. It may be that energy levels become depleted more frequently, the person may become more confused, or withdrawn, or they may even become agitated.
We all want to ensure however, that no matter the occasion, be it day-today, or that special event, that our loved ones feel loved and cared for, happy and safe, and are free from impairment of emotional or physical state, where possible.
Wanting your loved one to share in your special day can be a troubling time. Engaging in an events chaperone may be the way forward.
As your events chaperone I would be on hand to support you and your loved one throughout your special event; this in turn would enable you and your family to enjoy the occasion without too much distraction, concern, or worry.
I would initially meet and get to know your loved one, assess their needs, and go through the finer details of the support they would need for the day itself. As their chaperone, I would give full support and attention to their every need throughout the day.
And I will be there for you. Offering reassurance that your loved one is being cared for, and enjoying the most beautiful of family events, lessening the worry for you too.