Two of the most eminent researchers and professors in the field of dementia care have hailed the work of Forget Me Notts as they prepare to tackle the #Donate4Dementia Zipwire challenge in July.
Dr Karen Harrison Dening and Professor Tom Dening have spent decades at the forefront of dementia research and support, both locally and nationally.
The pair are united in the belief that, while medical care plays a crucial role, it is the sometimes intangible benefits of social activity that can make the biggest difference – both for those with the condition and their carers.
“I’m a great fan of the Trust and Forget Me Notts – they do absolutely brilliant work” said Prof Dening.
“Trent Bridge is such a prestigious environment. It’s a place people may have come many times in their life, so they may have happy recollections of it, but even if they don’t it’s clear you’re coming to somewhere significant and important.
“And it’s the ‘normality’ of attending something in your community – rather than in a clinical facility – that’s important.”
Dr Harrison Dening has worked in the field of dementia for over 40 years, having worked in nursing and research.
She feels the connections forged at initiatives like Forget Me Notts can make an invaluable impact.
“When people have dementia, it’s important to remain socially active and connected,” she said.
“If a place like Trent Bridge can offer some social engagement and normalise of dementia, that can only be a good thing.
“Dementia can be a battle that is fought alone – it can be difficult to find services in your locality that help with your diagnosis or provide the appropriate support. That’s where ventures like Forget Me Notts are vital.”
While significant progress has been made in raising awareness of dementia, funding for initiatives can remain on a knife-edge.
Indeed, it is the urgent need to raise £10,000 to allow Forget Me Notts to continue that has inspired the #Donate4Dementia Zipwire.
“It’s possible to have conversations about dementia with just about anybody now – people don’t shy away from it as much as they used to, and there’s much more social activity available for people.
“But all of these programmes cost money, and some of the funding can be fragile. It’s a constant challenge to make sure that things like Forget Me Notts are recognised.
“A lot of the benefits may seem intangible - if you’re keeping well, and staying out of hospital, it’s difficult to measure that.
“But the benefits will be significant, both to the public purse and to the individuals involved.
“It might be more attractive to say ‘let’s cure dementia’, but the benefits of any drugs we might develop or currently have are often no greater than the impact that attending a group like Forget Me Notts can have.”
But what of the zipwire challenge itself? The duo are unfazed, and excited.
“I like anything that involves adventure, energy and adrenaline – and when you can double it with Trent Bridge and the view from above, what’s there to say no to?” said Dr Harrison Dening
“I’m an adventurous sort of person, so I jumped at the chance to sign up.”
Prof Dening concurs: “I’m sure when I’m at the top of the wire, my little heart will be beating a bit! But I’m looking forward to the day.
“I’m a Notts member, and I love this place, so it’ll be fantastic to get a view of Trent Bridge I simply wouldn’t experience otherwise.”
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Sign up to see Trent Bridge as never before, from a height of 25m and speeds of 40mph, at the #Donate4Dementia Zipwire Challenge on Sunday 16 July.
Regsitration costs £50, with fundraising support offered to help individuals reach a minimum fundraising target of a further £100.