Foundation supports local residents experiencing dementia

This weekend’s FA Cup matches against Tamworth and Everton Women are dedicated to the Alzheimer’s Society’s ‘Support The Supporters’ campaign - aiming to help fans spot the signs of dementia in a loved one and support them just as much as they support their team.

Someone in the UK develops dementia every three minutes, but at least one in three people living with the condition do not have a diagnosis.

Tottenham Hotspur Foundation is proud to facilitate a weekly Alzheimer’s Society Singing for the Brain session at our stadium, in partnership with Haringey Council’s Haynes Dementia Hub.

Singing for the Brain brings people affected by dementia together to sing a variety of songs they know and love, in a fun and friendly environment. Participants also do vocal exercises that help improve brain activity and wellbeing.

Sessions at the stadium run every Tuesday from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

Simon Wears, Foundation Health and Wellbeing Manager, said: “Through various projects, the Foundation has for years been helping engage people with dementia across Haringey, Enfield and surrounding boroughs, as well as their carers.

“Singing for the Brain sessions provide a unique space for those affected by dementia to come together, share experiences and engage in meaningful activity.

“We’re delighted to help provide such a powerful initiative that truly enhances the lives of those who attend.

“This supports the Foundation’s work to drive healthier and happier lifestyles, and build safer, stronger communities, and we hope to develop this further by launching a walking football group for people with dementia in the spring.”

Tomorrow’s games come at a busy time in the footballing calendar and it is also an especially busy time for Alzheimer’s Society as people often spot changes in loved ones over the festive period, after seeing family members for the first time in a while.

Calls to the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Support Line were up 16% in January 2024 compared to the 2023 monthly average.

Tiziana Groom, Alzheimer’s Society Local Services Manager in North London, said: “Singing can improve brain activity, wellbeing and mood, and our Singing for the Brain sessions help instigate this in a fun, compassionate environment.

“The sessions at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium have been very successful so far - many of our group members are Spurs fans and love coming along to the Stadium each week. It’s a great example of the power football clubs have to positively impact the lives of people affected by dementia.”

Support those close to you by understanding which common dementia symptoms to look out for. Visit alzheimers.org.uk/sports to use Alzheimer’s Society’s symptoms checklist, get further information and donate to help fund research into early diagnosis.

To join in Singing for the Brain sessions at the stadium and express your interest in a walking football group, email simon.wears@tottenhamhotspur.com.