Val joined Tapestry Day Club in April 2022 and quickly increased her attendance to twice a week and now joins two different hosts. Transport is provided for both days. When Val first joined TDC she was in complete denial of any memory issues and determinedly refuted any suggestion that there might be a problem. This was very challenging for her son who needed to ensure her safely and wellbeing. We worked closely with her son as part of his wrap around support for his mother.
Over the past three years, we have managed several behavioural changes for Val due to her dementia. For a few months, she refused to join and this was handled with care and sensitivity by both hosts with encouragement and cajoling to come out for the day, emphasising the benefits of mixing with others and the good meal she would enjoy. Likewise, we supported her son through these challenging times, signposting him to wider support. Now Val is settled and thoroughly enjoys her days with her two hosts.
Val is also a former smoker and now vapes. Both hosts ensure she can continue by providing a safe space alert to the needs of their other guests.
We asked Steve what do you believe your mother enjoys most about being a guest of TDC? His comment: All of it! The social aspect, eating a good meal with others and the activities.
