FREE SWIMMING sessions for people living with dementia and their carers are being offered at leisure centres in the district during Dementia Action Week.
Stratford Leisure Centre, Southam Leisure Centre, Shipston Leisure Centre and Studley Leisure Centre run in partnership with Stratford District Council, are supporting the initiative, running from May 19 to 25.
An estimated 982,000 people are living with dementia in the UK, but more than a third of those with the condition do not have a diagnosis. Common symptoms include memory loss, confusion, difficulty concentrating and struggling to follow a conversation, which can often impact a person’s daily life.
Regular low-impact physical activity can help improve the overall wellbeing of those living with dementia, offering opportunities to socialise, improve balance, strength and mobility, and boost mood.
SDC neighbourhood services spokeswoman Coun Lorraine Grocott said: “We are dedicated to providing opportunities for everyone to improve their fitness and wellbeing, and we are proud to offer free swimming sessions at our leisure centres during this time. Swimming provides gentle physical activity and has proven benefits for mental wellbeing.
“This initiative is a positive and much welcomed contribution to Dementia Action Week, and we hope that people living with dementia, along with their carers, will take full advantage of it.”
Dementia Action Week is an annual awareness campaign led by the Alzheimer’s Society to encourage people to act on dementia.
People can arrive on the day to book in free of charge, phone their local centre or email [email protected] directly.
