Copyright MassLive
SOUTHWICK — The Southwick Public Library is offering a unique take on mental health education. Taking place on Nov. 5, The Dementia Experience is an interactive presentation that promises to be every bit as informative as it is harrowing. Wearing specialized sensory equipment, participants at the free event will be tasked with performing familiar activities, such as taking medication and cooking meals, as well as engaging in role-playing activities that simulate what it is like to have dementia. The program strives to inform participants, showcasing the daily struggles of a person suffering from cognitive decline. The event will showcase how dementia impacts communities, isolates the those most vulnerable to it, and sheds a light on the societal stigma for those affected. The ultimate goal for the experience to build tolerance and understanding for those suffering from the condition, in addition to teaching positive caregiving techniques that support and maintain the dignity of dementia patients. “It’s important for people to become more knowledgeable about these things that affect a lot of people,” said Lynn Blair, director of the Southwick Public Library and event coordinator. She stated that it’s a well known fact that the town has a large aging population and that cognitive conditions are very prevalent within the community. There’s a high chance, Blair went on to clarify, that the average townie may know someone with dementia or even suffer from it themselves. The Dementia Experience is one of many upcoming events created in tandem with Jayda Handzel, director of community relations at Armbrook Village, a living facility for older adults in Westfield. Though Southwick has had a number of seminars in the past around this topic, The Dementia Experience is designed to promote interest for upcoming events booked for November and December. These events, dubbed “memory cafes” by Blair and scheduled for the third Friday of every month, aim to not only educate about cognitive issues but provide opportunities to interact with dementia patients. Funded by a grant from Sarah Gillet Services for the Elderly, The Dementia Experience and subsequent memory cafes intend to create safe spaces for caregivers, curious citizens, and people suffering from memory loss to interact and connect. Activities include refreshments, representative appearances, caroling, and other special activities geared towards people with dementia to develop their confidence and increase wider socialization within the community. The events are open to anyone who wants to learn more about the topic. Blair stressed how important socialization is for mental health in general, let alone for those affected by cognitive issues. “If anybody has any more questions, I’d be more than happy to field their questions and get them involved in these programs,” Blair said.
