We all know Covid changed our lives. Purple Angels had to stop all their many activities supporting those living with Dementia and their families. Like any other organisations they had to adapt and find alternative ways to support members. This is a flavour of what they have been up to:
Weekly mini concerts – A weekly email contains a link to videos of performers singing or dancing, or both! They have really helped lift the spirits.
Weekly phone calls – Volunteers call every week to see how those living with Dementia and their families, are doing. They have a chat and offer help if they need it: food shopping or a trip to the pharmacy, etc. It has been so much appreciated by members. From time to time, to show everyone that we are still thinking of them, Purple Angels have send out little treats; afternoon teas, roast boxes, vintage vanity bags with toiletries, flowers, chocolates, birthday cakes, etc.
They have created “Beat the boredom” bags with puzzles and colouring books, games, etc to keep people occupied and also to avoid boredom and depression.
They even sourced pets (dogs and cats) that look real, breathe, purr, snore, etc but are battery operated.
They are incredible for pet therapy and have a calming effect on people living with Dementia. All the members who received one loved them. They are really cute!
And they purchased photo albums that make a comment when you press an icon on a page. They are great for remembrance, i.e. “this is me with my mother, father”, etc. Some members have lost loved ones during the crisis so will be sent a remembrance rose plant that they can have in their gardens to remember their loved ones.
Purple Angels can’t wait for social contact to be back to normal so they can resume activities but for now they are supporting members the best way they can to help them stay safe.