Demfest returns for the second festival of its kind to embrace dementia

Last weekend, Percussion Play was delighted to attend the only Dementia Festival (that wwe'reaware of) in the UK, held at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in Ampfield.

The festival's aim was to educate and inspire people with dementia, their carers, families and friends, and health professionals across Hampshire in a fun and informal way.

Lawrence "Lawrie" McMenemy MBE, an Ambassador for the Alzheimer's Society and a football legend in the UK, opened the festival.

Free to attend, visitors from all over Hampshire came to listen to the talks from top Dementia specialists and see the inspirational and innovative ideas from local projects, companies, and dementia specialists. Seminars and talks on dementia subjects took place all day, including relaxation techniques and reminiscence therapies. Activities were available for all ages, including therapies, table tennis, and crafts. Visitors could enjoy the surroundings while listening and joining in with singing and music from the many talented musicians attending.

Percussion Play demonstrated how easy and pleasing our instruments are to play and how playing music can help improve concentration and increase mobility and coordination. Creating a sound or sensory garden or trail can encourage those living with dementia to step outside and play a little music to reduce tension and promote relaxation. We discussed how our instruments are an excellent way to encourage more time outdoors and greater physical activity.

Click here
to read more about how our outdoor musical instruments can be used to improve the lives of those living with dementia.