Couple wins care aware for activities that help with dementia
A husband and wife from Kent have been celebrated for the games they create for people who are living with dementia.
Through their own experiences, the couple, who are otherwise known as Sharon and Chris Daltrey, discovered that games help lift the spirits of dementia patients. The pair helped to care for Sharon’s father who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and although they described it as some of the worst years of their life, there were also some remarkable memories made.
Drawing in their own experience, the couple developed Timeless Presents – a social enterprise that creates activities for people with dementia. Their first innovation was a seaside puzzle that also stimulated conversation about cherished childhood memories of days at the beach. Other activities created include a curiosity box, which contains several small items that recipients can play with, and an adult colouring book that is designed to retain individuals dignity.
These efforts have not gone unnoticed. Earlier this month Sharon and Chris were awarded the Dementia Care Innovator Award at the Dementia Care awards 2024. The event took place on 13th June at the Royal Lancaster Hotel.
Sharon with her award at the ceremony.
‘I started Timeless Presents because my Dad had Alzheimer’s. He found it really difficult to focus on anything and became disconnected a lot,’ Sharon said.
‘One day I realised he had forgotten spring blossoms when he was delighted and overwhelmed by a street filled with ‘the flowers on the trees.
‘We realised that familiar sights and sounds from his life still engaged him, so we looked for activities to stimulate some more happy moments. We spent some really lovely days together inspired by the activities.
‘When I started making our Timeless Presents I did not set out to do it for the recognition. I just wanted to help my dad, and now I want to help other carers caring for their loved ones. Winning a dementia care award is a wonderful achievement for Chris and I, but if it means more families get to reconnect with their parents, that will be the real prize.’
Since their creation, these activities have all received accreditation from the Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) at Stirling University, which officially validates timeless Presents’ commitment to excellence in dementia care.
Images: Sharon and Chris
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