Stop the Cuts

Alison’s story

“When my dad Stan was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2013, it was quite a shock for him and he found it difficult to come to terms with.

“He was 78 then and had always been so independent. My mum Cathie tried to reassure him by saying that we could get through it together as a family so long as we had support.

“They found out about Alzheimer Scotland’s day service at their resource centre in Dundee and dad started going there every week.

“He absolutely loved it and made so many friends, and it also gave my mum some much needed time to herself. The staff were amazing and always went the extra mile to look out for him, especially after mum passed away a few years ago.

“We were devastated when the service was closed last month, especially as no one was consulted about it. They didn’t give us a chance to fight for it.

“It was a real lifeline for the people with dementia as well as the carers and made such a massive difference to our lives. The staff were all specially trained in how to support people with dementia and it was wonderful seeing the way they interacted with everyone and the laughs they had.

“There aren’t many people you would trust to look after a loved one with dementia, but I knew he was in safe hands at the Alzheimer Scotland day service. It was almost like having a family member looking after him.

“Dad loved being in other people’s company and there were always activities to keep them stimulated. It’s so sad he can’t go any more.

“We’re now trying to find other things for him to do, because he needs time away from me and I need a break sometimes too. But it’s difficult finding the right fit.

“We’ve been offered alternative support services but none of them are suitable for him. You want something as good as what you had – why should you choose second best?

“One of the alternatives is a group attended by people both with and without dementia. This means dad might chat to someone without a diagnosis one week, and then the next time he sees them he doesn’t recognise him. That other person might not understand why that’s happened and it can cause difficulties.

“Dad also doesn’t function well in larger groups of people, as the noise and all the different things going on can be overwhelming for him.

“The unique thing about the Alzheimer Scotland centre was that it was designed specifically for people with dementia and all the staff were specially trained.

“It’s beyond belief they have closed this service and I just wish the people making the decision understood what a huge impact it’s having on families like ours who are affected by dementia.”

Thank you to Alison for sharing her story.

We’re calling on decision-makers to protect essential dementia services. Funding cuts threaten the crucial support that helps people with dementia and their families live well each day.

That’s why we’re campaigning to not only preserve these services but to strengthen them—so no one has to face dementia alone. Sign our petition here.