People with dementia take part in local ‘Legends & History’ project

BALLYMENA people living with dementia, and their companions, are enjoying visits to local places of interest and storytelling sessions as part of a new ‘Legends and History’ Programme being delivered by the Alzheimer’s Society in conjunction with the Mid Antrim Museum, and the Live & learn project.

The first of four sessions commenced with a visit to Galgorm Castle and the Thatch in Broughshane in the company of local storyteller Jennifer McLernon

The next three sessions will include storytelling with Liz Weir and interactive talks about traditional skills and crafts with the Live & Learn project at The Mid Antrim Museum at the Braid in Ballymena and Clotworthy House in Antrim.

Participants in this ground- breaking project come from Alzheimer’s Society Activity groups; they meet once a month at Houston’s Mill, Broughshane and at the Antrim Forum.

A member of the group said: “We would love to see more of this type of activity available to people with dementia and their families. Getting a diagnosis of dementia doesn’t mean that life has to end; there is still so much to be enjoyed”.

Dawn Beckett, Activities Manager with the Alzheimer’s Society added: “This has been the first time we have designed this type of programme and we are delighted it has been so well received. We have also had great support from local business McLaughlin & Harvey”.

Noreen Mullan from the Mid-Antrim Museum said: “The museum is delighted to be given this opportunity to work in partnership with Alzheimer’s Society and the Live & Learn Project. This project reflects the museum’s desire to support local community groups and to open up our collections and exhibitions to a wider audience”.

If you would like more information on the Activity Groups please contact Dawn Beckett on 94 461717 or email [email protected]