Local Walks And Sing-Alongs For A Worthy Cause

To raise awareness for World Alzheimer’s Month, care homes across The Fremantle Trust including Lewin House, Cherry Garth and The Heights, put together events and activities to help raise awareness and funds for The Alzheimer’s Society.

Cherry Garth, in Holmer Green and The Heights in Downley, High Wycombe encouraged residents, care teams and relatives to join thousands around the country for the Alzheimer’s Society Memory Walk on 17 September 2021. This involved taking a lovely stroll around their local areas with The Heights raising £800 through donations and Cherry Garth raising £150 through collections in the local community.

Activity Co-ordinator at The Heights, Samantha Anns commented: “I was delighted with the support from both the residents and the relatives. It was great to have so many people involved in raising money for such an important charity. The work that the Alzheimer’s Society do to raise awareness and help people living with dementia is so important and I’m pleased we have been able support them.”

On 27 September 2021, residents, families and friends of Lewin House came together for a wine and cheese evening, with a special choral performance from the Wingrave Singers. Lesley Alexander, a resident at Lewin House who lives with Alzheimer’s disease, was a key member of the soprano section from 1978. Her husband also joined the choir in 1980, so their performance in the home created a special connection and opportunity to relive past memories.

Community and Lifestyle Manager, Sue Faulkner – a Dementia Friend and Dementia Champion with The Alzheimer’s Society, who has also co-led workshops and training for employees within The Fremantle Trust commented: “Music is known to elicit emotions, reduce anxiety and provide a way to connect with loved ones who have difficulty communicating, so this event was a great way to engage our residents who are affected by the disease.”