A scheme supported by fundraising to improve the experience of patients living with dementia has started at a Norfolk hospital.
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn is using money raised during its Dementia Care Appeal to provide extra activities for dementia patients while they are on the wards.
The two-phase appeal, which launched in January 2023, raised just over £100,000 in order to improve the mental and physical health of dementia patients.
What is the project?
Exercise specialists from Exercising People In Communities (EPIC) Norfolk have started visiting dementia patients on wards twice a week to carry out activities including group seated exercises and sports exercises such as bowling.
Reaction
Lucy Baker, one of the Exercise Specialists from EPIC Norfolk, said: “We have seen lots of positive changes in patients. We witnessed this through feedback from the patients, their facial expressions and body language, laughter and cheering during the group activities.
“Some family members visiting their loved ones have even joined in during the group activities. They enjoy being able to interact in something fun together.”
Each year the Trust cares for around 1,400 patients with this progressive condition.
Dr Katie Honney, clinical director for Integrated Care of the Older Person and clinical lead for the charity appeal said: “We are eternally grateful to everyone who supported this important campaign and donated to the cause.
“With the money raised we have been able to ensure that patients living with dementia can benefit from exercise therapies while they are being cared for on our wards.”
Rachel Burridge, consultant nurse for Frailty at The QEH, said: “Exercise therapy is proven to help patients regain balance and improve both physical and mental health.
“We have noticed how our patients’ mood can change and how they can be uplifted when they engage in an activity delivered by the EPIC Norfolk Exercise Specialists – they reminisce about past sports and hobbies they have been interested in. It is very rewarding to see a patient smile and enjoy their time in hospital, which is improving the overall patient experience.”
