My husband was diagnosed with dementia nearly 6 years ago, after a series of ITA (mini strokes) gladly his medication seems to have balanced a lot of his problems. It affected his co-ordination and this proved very difficult at times, especially when getting undressed/dressed.
We were coping quite well until about 18 months ago when my husband had a very bad knee infection, so this along with his arthritis was hell! I got to feel the strain myself, I have COPD which leaves difficult tasks such a problem as I can't get my breath.
My daughter rang Social Services with the help of our doctor, members of the mental health team visited. In a short space of time we had so much equipment to help him get about it was unbelievable - Thanks to Jessica - we then got in touch with the Phoenix club at Wood End- was very dubious about attending, everyone made us feel so welcome, my husband was chatting away happily to everyone, and I soon found out that others were worse off than us, but still they joined us.
My husband looks forward to the club every week now and always mentions the sandwich for lunch. We visit places with the club too.
We have a carer 3 times a week to shower and dress my husband, which is a relief.
"We look forward to phoenix club every week"
About: Coventry And Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust / Older people's mental health Coventry And Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust Older people's mental health CV2 2TE
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