Over the past week and as part of today’s matchday, we at Watford FC are backing the Alzheimer’s Society’s Support The Supporters campaign, to encourage fans to support their loved ones by looking out for common signs of dementia and taking the first steps in seeking a diagnosis.
The campaign is being backed by clubs and organisations across the football pyramid, including The Football Association (FA), the Premier League, the Vanarama National League and the League Managers Association, to help create a future where football is unforgettable.
Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer, with one in three people born today going on to develop it in their lifetime. But thousands are currently living with undiagnosed dementia, with too many people who still think dementia is just a sign of normal ageing, or are unsure of the symptoms, and are too afraid to visit their GP.
If fans have noticed any changes in themselves or their loved ones during the recent festive period, they can show their support by visiting alzheimers.org.uk/sports to use the Alzheimer’s Society’s symptoms checklist and get further information on receiving a diagnosis.
An early and accurate diagnosis unlocks access to treatment, care and support, allowing people to manage the condition and their lives, whilst planning for the future. An Alzheimer’s Society survey revealed that 91 per cent of people affected by dementia saw clear benefits to getting a diagnosis, with many wishing they’d received one earlier.
Here at Watford, we deliver Golden Memories. This is a weekly reminiscence programme for people living with dementia and their carers and/or loved ones. Hosted in the Sensory Room at Vicarage Road Stadium, we take guests on a journey down the ‘Yellow Brick Road’ and through the decades, using football, history and music to evoke personal memories.
Sessions are supported by volunteers, and include a celebration of Watford FC, general reminiscence, guest speakers including former players, memorabilia, respite for carers/families, monthly excursions, music and dance through the eras and chair-based exercise.
See below some feedback comments we recently received:
Golden Memories is a partnership with the Premier League, PFA, Watford Borough Council, the Alzheimer’s Society and Watford Museum. Sessions are delivered on Mondays from 10.30am-12noon. If you or someone you know would benefit from Golden Memories, please contact Shona at shona.mchale@watfordfc.com.
If you or a loved one are living with dementia and need additional support from the club to attend matches, please contact disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com with your details, and one of our team will call to discuss how we can help.
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