Hiya
It is easy to get depressed and jaded once you hear your diagnosis
I think many that have replied to you are feeling low and unlistened to.
An advocacy service to help people listen to us and not to focus above all else on dementia would be useful.
For example, after I received my diagnosis vascular dementia), I was lead to beleive that staying fit might help me retain soem brain power. I decided to (re) join a gym.
They were brilliant until they saw 'dementia' on the medical questionaire, at which point it was politely pointed out to me that they didn't think they would be able to deal with my needs.
It took a lot of asking pleading, demanding and getting downright angry before I was accepted.
If your service had someone who could be the go-between between the gym and myself that would be brilliant. On my good days, I can understand how scared they were of doing something wrong.
Simply helping organisations to ensure that always have a dementia friend on duty would help loads.
I suggested this to my optician after I had to leave the shop in confusion because the woman who was meant to be fitting my glasses hadnt got a clue how to help and totally confused me. The suggestion didnt go down too well.
Good luck with the project
John
I am a Student Occupational Therapist in my final year of university. As part of my course I am required to design a service which will be of benefit to a population (and it may eventually be set up). I have chosen to design a service which would be of benefit younger people who have an onset of dementia. For example, a walk in service which provides a number of leisure activities and days out for families. I would love to hear about your experiences and what you feel would be a useful service to you and your family.
Thank you