When providing training to families caring for someone with dementia, we like to use a carefully thought out shopping list to help families understand what their loved ones are going through.

On this shopping list is:

BUBBLES - these represent memories formed and memories gone. Often a person suffering with dementia can form the memories, but they are not solid, and can disappear like a popping bubble.

YOYO - this represents the mood of the person with dementia. Mood swings up and down, following the motion of a yoyo as it rises and falls.

PEGS - these are the carers, family and friends holding it all together to ensure the person with dementia can lead a rewarding and full filling life.

Underground Map - remember how you felt when you first travelled on the London Underground and the overwhelming feeling of getting lost and not really knowing where your going? This is how a person with dementia often feels.

LOVE HEARTS - These sweets have caring and loving messages, such as ‘HUG ME’ and ‘CARE FOR ME’. This reminds how our loved ones feel and what we should give.

When you are next writing that shopping list for your loved one, take a moment to remember this list, remember the person you are writing the list for and the struggles they are having. Maybe add an item or two - who doesn’t love bubbles or Love Hearts?

Here at Bloomin’ Dementia we a take pride in taking our role in this list - the peg, helping the family hold everything together.