Support for people living with dementia in Wiltshire is back to near-normal levels after months of social isolation.

Alzheimer’s Support reopened its one-to-one Home Support in May, its day clubs in August and is now gradually restarting music, movement and art groups across the Wiltshire.

The charity was determined to reopen after witnessing how people living with dementia and family carers struggled in lockdown.

A survey by the charity showed 70 per cent of those with dementia experienced worsening symptoms of forgetfulness and confusion and 67 per cent said anxiety and agitation worsened.

Carers too said they were becoming exhausted with additional work and worry.

One respondent said: “Before lockdown Mum had a great weekly routine. With no routine and no going out she became very confused.

"There was day and night confusion. And anger at not going out.”

“Lockdown has certainly made living with dementia a challenge and made us realise how important regular social interactions is,” said another.

Alzheimer’s Support worked with Public Health England and Wiltshire Council to ensure its environments are Covid-19 secure and its procedures safe. All its reopening plans have been fully approved.

CEO Babs Harris said: “We have witnessed accelerating cognitive decline and extreme carer fatigue – and in the early months of lockdown a two-thirds drop in referrals as people were not seeking help from GPs.

“Sadly, some have not been able to return to us as their dementia has progressed during the last few months and they have moved to full-time care. We have spaces in our community groups and, for the first time in years, no waiting lists at our day clubs.

“Lockdown has been incredibly tough for people living with dementia and their families. That is why we have done everything we can to adjust and introduce safer new ways of working to ensure we can provide the services that make all the difference.”

To find out more about Alzheimer’s Support’s day clubs, activity groups and one-to-one support in your area, call 01225 776841 or go to www.alzheimerswiltshire.org.uk

Alzheimer’s Support operate throughout Wiltshire to provide flexible services for people living at home with all types of dementia and their family carers.