Salford’s dementia-friendly sports programme set to improve mental and physical health

A walking sports programme designed to help those with dementia improve physical and mental wellbeing, has been launched in Salford. 

The campaign that was organised in 2022 by Age UK Salford when they partnered with Foundation 92, was set up to help older people in the community. 

It has been launched to encourage those with dementia to be active, with the hope of improving physical and mental wellbeing. 

Held at Albert Park, Salford between 1pm and 3pm every Thursday, it gives members the opportunity to try a variety of activities in a multisport environment.

The two hours are divided into two sessions, with the first hour offering visitors the chance to compete in their favourite sports helping to grow a network of friends.

Joe, who is a regular attendee, said: “It gets me out the house, it gives me things to do several times a week.”

“There’s some great people here, we have some good fun.”

The second hour of programme is a session of ‘memory triggering’, with staff working with the members to recollect memories from the past.

The ‘memory triggering’ is done by showing the members a booklet filled with their favourite bands, music and activities.

Staff each week fill the booklets with personalised pictures of the guests and will match activities that will then be written down in their responsive feedback.

Damon Traverse, head of media at Foundation 92, a charitable arm of Salford City FC, said: “The scrapbook memory books are really important for our patients, there have been times where unfortunately we have lost members, so we will put their photo in the memory book.” 

With more than 20 participants being referred by health advisors or carers to the programme each week,  it shows the importance it brings to local people from the community. 

Damon added: “Our aim is to prevent social isolation and allow those suffering with or from dementia to come together as a community.

“This session gives them a break from normality and meet like minded people, whether it is other carers, or others experiencing dementia.”

Here is a map showing the location of the park and showing the location of the Age UK in Salford.

For more information on how to join this programme can be found here.