Dementia Action Week at The Firs Residential Home in Derby
May 18th – 24th is Dementia Action Week, a national awareness campaign organised each year by the Alzheimer’s Society.
At The Firs Residential Home in Breaston, Derbyshire, this week is especially significant, as it reflects the values that underpin everything we do: dignity, compassion, understanding, and truly person-centred dementia care.
As a long-established residential care home set within a beautiful Victorian building dating back to 1908, we provide a warm, safe, and homely environment where residents living with dementia are supported to live fulfilling lives with comfort and respect. Dementia Action Week gives us an opportunity not only to highlight the importance of specialist dementia care but also to encourage greater awareness and understanding within the wider community.
A Specialist Dementia Care Home with a Personal Approach
Dementia affects everyone differently. There is no single experience, which is why care must be tailored to the individual. At The Firs, we take a deeply personalised approach, ensuring every resident is treated as an individual with their own life story, preferences, and needs.
Our dementia care is delivered by trained, compassionate staff who are available 24 hours a day. Each resident has a carefully developed care plan that evolves as their needs change, ensuring support remains consistent and appropriate at every stage. This commitment to personalised care helps our residents feel safe, valued, and understood.
The home itself is designed to be calm, familiar, and reassuring. Clear layouts, supportive environments, and homely surroundings help reduce confusion and anxiety, allowing residents to move around with confidence. Personal belongings, photographs, and memory cues are encouraged in rooms to help maintain identity and connection with the past.
Creating Meaningful Daily Experiences
At The Firs, dementia care is about much more than meeting physical needs. It is about creating meaningful daily experiences that support emotional well-being and cognitive stimulation.
Residents are encouraged to take part in a wide range of activities tailored to their abilities and interests. These may include reminiscence sessions, music therapy, arts and crafts, gentle exercise, and sensory-based sessions. Each activity is designed to spark memories, encourage engagement, and promote a sense of achievement.
Mealtimes are also an important part of daily life. Nutritious, home-cooked meals are prepared on-site, with care and support given where needed to ensure every resident enjoys their dining experience in a relaxed and social environment.
The aim is always to promote independence wherever possible while offering reassurance and support when needed.
Why Dementia Action Week Matters
At The Firs, we see first-hand the impact that dementia has not only on individuals but also on families and friends. It can be an emotional and often overwhelming journey. That is why awareness and education are so important.
By increasing understanding, we can help create a more compassionate society where people living with dementia feel included, respected, and supported rather than isolated or misunderstood.
During Dementia Action Week, we encourage everyone to consider simple yet powerful actions:
- Taking time to learn more about dementia and its effects
- Being patient and understanding in everyday interactions
- Supporting friends, family members, or neighbours affected by the condition
- Encouraging open conversations about memory loss and cognitive health
Small actions collectively make a significant difference.
Supporting Families Every Step of the Way
We recognise that dementia affects entire families, not just the person diagnosed. That is why we place a strong emphasis on supporting relatives and loved ones throughout their care journey.
Families are encouraged to remain closely involved in the life of their loved one. Regular communication, visits, and shared moments are all part of maintaining strong emotional connections. We understand how important these relationships are in helping residents feel secure and grounded, which is why we offer flexible visiting hours.
Our team is always available to offer guidance, reassurance, and emotional support. Whether you’re just beginning to explore care options or you’re already part of our community, we aim to provide clarity and comfort at every stage.
A Safe, Homely Environment in Breaston
The setting of The Firs plays an important role in the quality of care we provide. Located in Breaston, Derbyshire, our home offers a peaceful environment that balances safety with independence.
Secure outdoor spaces allow our much-loved residents to enjoy fresh air and nature in a safe way, while communal areas provide opportunities for social interaction and engagement.
This combination of safety, familiarity, and warmth helps residents feel truly at home.
Taking Action Together
Dementia Action Week is a reminder that we all have a role to play in creating a more understanding and supportive society. Whether through learning, listening, or simply showing kindness, every action matters.
At The Firs, we will continue to lead by example, providing specialist dementia care that prioritises individuality, comfort, and dignity. We invite families, friends, and the wider community to join us in this important week of awareness and reflection.
Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those living with dementia, not just during Dementia Action Week, but every day of the year. For more information on our dementia care, speak to one of our dedicated members of staff.