James’ story
James describes how his friend’s diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease inspired him to volunteer for the charity .
“Martin and I have been friends for almost 50 years and I have so many great memories of us going out together. We were quite mischievous when we were younger, and if there was trouble to be had, we would find it.
“We’re 66 now and both of us have settled down with our families. A couple of years ago we started to notice signs of change in Martin. He was eventually diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, which was a shock but at least that explained what had been happening.
“At that time I didn’t know much about Alzheimer’s or dementia generally, so I started reading as much as I could about it. I wanted to understand things better so I’d know how to help Martin and also how to help his wife Mary.
“My research took me first to the Memories Scotland project. I volunteered at sessions in Glasgow libraries where people would come together using memory boxes to reminisce and share memories about the past. It was there that I heard about Alzheimer Scotland and decided to volunteer at their Centre in Glasgow. I help out at group activities for people living with dementia as well as their carers, family and friends.
“I’ve learned so much about dementia, how it affects everyone differently, and also how best to chat to and support someone who’s living with a diagnosis. I’ve learned to be patient and to give the person time to speak. I encouraged Martin and Mary to both come along to the Centre. It’s good for Martin to get out and socialise with other people and it also gives Mary some respite too.
“By volunteering for Alzheimer Scotland, I can spend time with Martin, give his wife a bit of a break, but I also learn a lot and enjoy being able to help other people in a similar situation. It’s rewarding being able to help support a charity that does such great work for so many people. You can see how much people enjoy coming along to the groups, whether it’s to play games, listen to music or just to chat.
“Martin behaves in a different way from how he used to, but that doesn’t change anything about who he is and what he means to me. He’s still my best friend and we can still have a laugh together. No one can take away the 50 years of friendship we’ve had and my focus now is on how I can help him and his family to make the most out of life for as long as we can.”