New day care centre specialising in dementia care for older people to open in Northampton following high demand

A second day care centre, which will offer specialised dementia care for older people in Northampton will open later this year, due to high demand for the service.

Affinity Day Care, which is a community interest company, launched a day care service for older people in December last year at St Luke’s Community Centre in Duston where activities such as group exercise, crafts and more are provided.

The demand has been huge and the service is now fully booked five days a week, so the company is preparing to open in another location to extend the amount of places it can offer.

In June, a second day centre will open in St James Community Centre where specialised care for people with dementia will be provided.

Fern Overton, director at Affinity Day Care said: “We knew there was a need for day care in Northampton but didn’t expect demand to be so high.

“Our St Luke’s site is now full five days a week and we have a waiting list with assessments being completed every day.

“We know from demographic statistics that we’re seeing a large increase in the over 50’s age group in Northamptonshire, due to the post-war spike in birth rates and increasing life expectancy, so we need to be at the forefront of modern care for older adults.

“We are delighted to be opening the specialised dementia site and have lots of plans to ensure the care is person-centred and stimulating.”

The day centre at St James will cater to individuals with high dependency needs.

A variety of activities will be available including sensory activities, rummage boxes, baby therapy, reminiscent activities, singing, dog and cat therapy and excursions.

Those with wandering tendencies, which is a common symptom of dementia, will be able to do so safely in an environment supported by trained carers.

The St James centre will open on June 7, 2021 and the service will cost £45 a day, which includes transport to and from the centre, a two-course lunch, activities, refreshments, outings and professional care.

The new site will be open from 10.30am to 3.30pm every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

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