People living with dementia in Melksham are getting together once again for gentle exercise sessions at Bowerhill Village Hall.

Movement for the Mind, run by Alzheimer’s Support, has been meeting at Bowerhill Village Hall since 2011. The fortnightly Wednesday morning sessions combine exercise to music with reminiscences and social time over refreshments, and are a great way to meet new friends. The group was recently granted £450 from Melksham Town Council.

Group organiser Kate Sharpe said: “We missed everyone dreadfully during lockdown. Some members joined our online sessions by zoom or attended the limited number of face-to-face meetings we have been able to run elsewhere since the autumn, but it’s been wonderful to be back together as a group at Bowerhill. We are exempt from the rule of six and are following care Covid protocols to keep everyone safe.

“People affected by dementia benefit so much from getting out and enjoying a social occasion, especially after lockdown, and there are so many health benefits to taking part. The exercises are suitable for older people and many are done from the chair so you don’t need to be superfit. Even people who are not very mobile can benefit from the breathing, gentle ankle exercises and stretching.”

The group is led a qualified fitness instructor trained in dementia awareness and everyone takes part at their own pace. “There is a lot of laughter in the group,” said Kate.

Movement for the Mind meets at Bowerhill Village Hall, Halifax Road, SN12 6QN every other Wednesday from 10.30am to 12pm and family cares are welcomed as full members of the group. The charity asks for a £1.50 contribution on the door to help towards costs.

To join the group, or to come along as a volunteer, please call 01389 739055 or sign up at www.alzheimerwiltshire.org.uk.

(Our twitter handle is @AlzheimersSuppand on Facebook/Instagram we are AlzheimersSupportWiltshire)

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