Dementia Friend Sarah spreads joy in care homes through her singing act Sassy Grey. Here she shares the impact of Dementia Friends, and the small changes she has made to make a big impact for everyone affected by dementia.
“Supporting people with dementia is a cause very close to my heart. My mission as part of Sassy Grey is to help spread joy to anyone affected by the condition. I wear my Dementia Friends badge to show people with dementia that I understand and am there for them.
“My Mum, Sue, went into a care home when she was about 65 years old due to mobility problems related to Multiple Sclerosis. Towards the end of her life, she exhibited signs of dementia as well. She always taught me to be kind and polite, and she always inspired me to sing from a young age.
“Mum asked me to sing in her care home a few times, then word of mouth spread and I got asked to sing in other care homes, and so my care home entertainment business ‘Sassy Grey Singer’ was formed in 2021! Both my mum and dad always actively encouraged my singing hobby as I used to be very shy as a child. When I sing now, I can get emotional as it reminds me so much of them.
“I was inspired to become a Dementia Friend through my interactions with the residents in the care homes. The Dementia Friends video showed how dementia may impact the daily life of someone living with the condition and how a little understanding can make a big difference. I was inspired to revamp my care home entertainment sessions to be more of an interactive and sensory experience. It was only through my increased awareness and understanding of dementia that prompted me to do all of this.
“Before learning more about dementia, I used to be so afraid of triggering someone, upsetting them inadvertently, or reminding them of a sad time - but I have learnt that it is better to reach out and attempt connection, than to not reach out at all.
“I have also learned that even if someone cannot make eye contact with you or be able to verbalise a response, there will always be some sort of sign they are enjoying your company, such as a toe tap, a smile or a laugh, and that’s the best thing for me to experience through my care home sessions, that ability to connect with someone who might not be able to connect in typical ways.
“As I am becoming more aware that dementia affects all of us, either directly or indirectly, I wanted to raise some money for support and research. This year I am fundraising for Alzheimer’s Society through two events. A friend, Mandi Dee, and I will be performing at a charity fayre in Cheadle Hulme, and I am taking part in a sponsored Summer Walk in London in August. I have raised £605 so far for the walk and hope to get to £1000 by the end of the year!
“I would absolutely recommend becoming a Dementia Friend. We only fear what we do not understand. Dementia is a very misunderstood and unfairly represented disease in media and film. Through empathy, social connection and patience, a person with dementia can live a healthy and happy life. We can only support people living with dementia if we understand more about it."
Become a Dementia Friend like Sarah, join us here.
