Bield's Oakburn Park Day Care service in Milngavie celebrated World Alzheimer’s Day by bringing together the local community for a powerful awareness session.
Held on Friday 20th September, the event titled “I Am Still Me” highlighted the importance of recognising the person behind the illness, and explored how individuals with Alzheimer's see themselves compared to how they are seen by others.
Attendees were treated to an afternoon tea while participating in various sessions. Staff members read heartfelt poems to create a reflective and supportive atmosphere and participants were encouraged to share their personal experiences of Alzheimer’s, fostering open discussions and strengthening the sense of community. There was also a light exercise class to engage everyone in gentle physical activity to help promote their overall well-being.
One of the highlights of the day was the creation of a personalised scrapbook, which showcased the lives of attendees and how Alzheimer’s has impacted them.
Donna McCallum, Manager at Bield’s Oakburn Park, said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us for this special day.
“Alzheimer's is a deeply personal journey for those affected, and it's important that we continue to celebrate the individuality and history of each person.
“We wanted to remind everyone that, despite the challenges, each individual’s unique life and personality still shine through.
“It’s very important for us to work together as a community to break the stigma around Alzheimer’s. By doing so, we create a more supportive environment for those living with the disease.
“The support from the local community has been overwhelming, and we hope this event helps to raise further awareness and understanding.”
Oakburn Park's long-standing dedication to dementia care was at the heart of the event. For over 13 years, it has been a pillar of support for both those living with dementia and their families, offering professional care and vital social activities.
Service user Joan was among those who shared their stories in the scrapbook. Joan said: “I previously worked as a nurse and then a Home Help in my local community and got a great amount of job satisfaction from helping others in need. I am now 81 years old and still a sociable lady who enjoys the company of others but my memory can get a little fuzzy and I can get confused. I still want to feel included and respected as the person I am though because I’m still me.”
Also sharing their experience, a family member in attendance said: “Today was really special for us. It’s easy to feel like we’re losing pieces of our relative to Alzheimer’s, but this event reminded us that those pieces are still there.
“Watching them smile and relive memories through the scrapbook brought us so much joy. It’s a gift to celebrate who they are beyond the disease, and to know we’re not alone in this journey. Events like these give us hope and a sense of community that we so deeply need.”
Oakburn Park Day Care is a well-known care facility that promotes a strong community spirit. The centre fosters connections with local organisations, shops and churches to ensure that its members remain engaged and integrated within the local area. It offers support for over 20 members three days a week, providing access to professional care and social activities for those living with dementia. Additionally, Oakburn Park offers a two-day-a-week service for elderly individuals who are frail and may have limited ability to stay connected with others.