The advice comes ahead of firework season
A warning has been issued to those living with dementia, their families and carers. It comes ahead of fireworks night, a much-loved tradition celebrated by thousands across Merseyside every year.
However, what many don’t initially think of when planning their Tuesday, November 5 festivities is the impact it has on others. Dawn Collett, the commissioning director at New Care Homes, which is behind Formby Manor Care Home, said the bright lights and booming create a “unique challenge” for those affected with dementia-related illnesses.
She told the ECHO: “As the nights come in and the temperature drops, people across the UK are looking forward to Fireworks Night. From big events to back garden gatherings, everyone is looking forward to wrapping up warm to watch some fantastic spectacles – and even enjoying some autumn treats like hot chocolate and toffee apples in the process.
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“However, for those who are currently living with dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases, it can be a challenging experience. On the one hand, it’s a great opportunity to celebrate a much-loved tradition, encouraging social interaction and a sense of warmth and familiarity that can be good for the individual.
“On the other hand, as the condition progresses, those living with it may struggle to realise what is going on and may be unable to communicate their discomfort.
“Each situation is different and can be informed by many factors. Whether they want to take part or prefer to remain at home, there are ways to make your friend or family member feel safe during Fireworks Night and to provide the best support whatever the situation may be.”
Should people affected by dementia attend Firework Night?
Dawn explained how dementia affects perception, memory, problem-solving, language and behaviour and how this can make sudden environmental changes and sounds – like fireworks, difficult to experience.
In addition, those living with dementia can find communication and concentration difficult at times, which can make it hard for them to tell others that they may be feeling distressed or uncomfortable. Many may feel like they don’t want to cause a fuss or stop the fun, even when it becomes less fun for them.
However, it’s important to remember that dementia develops in stages. In the early stages, symptoms may be mild, which means your friend or family member would be happy to attend an event, but that might change as the condition progresses.
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Dawn said each patient is also different, and issues that may affect someone may not be present for someone else or affect them to the same extent. As a result, each situation should be assessed on a case-by-case basis, with professional advice and guidance sought when appropriate.
Whether the person experiencing symptoms is excited to attend an event or prefers to stay home, there are things that friends and family can do to help them remain comfortable during bonfire night, whatever their decision. This includes attending well-organised official events such as those at Sefton or Newsham Park, as these large-scale events have designated quiet areas.
