Families across Swindon who are supporting a father living with dementia are being encouraged to focus on meaningful moments and seek support where needed ahead of Father’s Day this weekend.
Alzheimer’s Society has issued advice to help people navigate what can be an emotional and challenging occasion, particularly as dementia can change family relationships and affect how loved ones connect with one another.
The charity estimates that around one million people in the UK are living with dementia, including more than 2,800 people in Swindon.
Dementia is caused by diseases of the brain and is not a natural part of ageing. The condition can affect memory, communication, problem-solving abilities and spatial awareness, with symptoms often progressing over time.
For many families, these changes can alter long-established relationships. Adult children may find themselves taking on caring responsibilities for a parent, creating a shift in family dynamics that can bring feelings of sadness, frustration, grief and uncertainty.
Ahead of Father’s Day, Alzheimer’s Society is encouraging people to acknowledge those emotions while finding new ways to maintain connections with their loved ones.
Angelo Makri, Senior Wellbeing Knowledge Officer at the charity, said caring for a parent with dementia can be both rewarding and overwhelming, particularly for those balancing employment, education or other caring responsibilities.
He said many people miss being able to rely on a parent for advice and support in the way they once did, which can make occasions such as Father’s Day especially difficult.
However, he encouraged families to focus on the relationship as it exists today rather than dwelling on what has changed.
Mr Makri said that while a person living with dementia may not always remember a visit, conversation or day out, they can still experience the positive feelings created by spending time with loved ones.
The charity recommends adapting activities that have always been important within the relationship. For example, if a father previously enjoyed gardening but can no longer take part in the hobby independently, a visit to a local park or garden centre may provide a similar shared experience.
Reminiscence can also be a valuable way of strengthening connections. Looking through old photographs, letters, journals or other personal items can help spark memories and encourage conversation.
Music and creative activities are another option. Listening to favourite songs, drawing, painting or taking part in simple arts activities can provide opportunities for engagement, even when verbal communication becomes more difficult.
The charity also highlights the power of sensory experiences. Familiar smells, sounds and tastes can often trigger memories and evoke positive emotions.
Alongside advice for maintaining relationships, Alzheimer’s Society is reminding carers of the importance of looking after their own wellbeing.
The organisation recommends taking breaks when possible, seeking practical support from family members and friends, and speaking openly about the emotional impact of caring responsibilities.
Support groups, dementia advisers and online communities can also provide valuable guidance and reassurance for those navigating the challenges of supporting a loved one with dementia.
Throughout June, Alzheimer’s Society is also running its Forget Me Not Appeal, encouraging people to wear the charity’s symbolic Forget Me Not badge to raise awareness of the impact dementia has on families and to support dementia research and support services.
As Father’s Day approaches, the charity hopes its advice will help families focus on creating meaningful moments together, regardless of how dementia may have changed their relationships over time.
