'We'd be lost without support of dementia charity'

Families of dementia sufferers have said they would be lost without the support of people they have met through a Guernsey charity.

Guernsey Alzheimer's Association has been helping families since 2009 by offering social activities, practical support and "genuine companionship".

On Wednesday, around 40 people with dementia and their carers gathered at the Aztech Soccer sports centre for four hours of boccia, walking cricket, seated volleyball, and walking football.

John Adams, who joined the event with his wife, said he relied on the support of people he had met through the association.

"These events are incredibly important because you get to meet other carers," Adams said.

"It's wonderful for my wife who gets involved with all the sports here, because when she was diagnosed four years ago we were living in England and there was nothing like this."

Adams said the list of activities available was "absolutely fantastic" and the event organisers were "amazing".

"They have been instrumental in putting us in touch with the people we need to be in touch with. Without that I'd be lost, absolutely lost," said Adams.

Pip Loinger, who has cared for her husband Jan since he was diagnosed in 2023, said they "wouldn't be doing as well" had it not been for the charity's support.

"When you get your diagnosis it is a very formal procedure, but then you feel lost because you don't know what to do next, so they have been a huge support for us," she said," she said.

"Things were going on for maybe the last 10 years and because Jan is young and still working he ended up losing his job.

"It was really distressing at the time because we had no idea why, but he understands now and that makes things a lot easier."

Julie Thompson, manager of Guernsey Alzheimer's Association, said it wanted people to be active and enjoy its events.

"We want people to be active to have that brain stimulation, while really enjoying it at the same time," she said.

"It's been a fantastic turnout, and everyone has been getting involved with the activities."

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