Twiddlemuffs are teriffic for coping with dementia

AN innovative project to help sufferers cope with dementia has proved a resounding success across the dale.
Volunteers have knitted and crocheted more than 150 “twiddlemuffs” for the Teesdale Disability Access Forum.
The woollen muffs have a calming effect on dementia sufferers who claw at their legs arms and face when they become agitated.
The forum’s chief officer Anne Henderson said the muffs were knitted with ribbons, buttons, zips, pom-poms and other items both on their inside and outside.
“The muff provides a source of visual, tactile and sensory stimulation and at the same time keeps hands snug and warm.”
She added: “The idea came from someone down south and a friends popped one in for us to see.
“We thought it would be good for our community. One of the first signs of dementia is for people to become agitated.
“A twiddlemuff helps to calm them.”
Ms Henderson added: “In June, we were asking people to knit them and the community came to our aid.
“Special thanks to our trustee Brenda Singleton who has crocheted more than 50 twiddlemuffs.”
To date, 78 muffs have been given to dementia sufferers – and the forum is keen no-one should miss out.
Ms Henderson said: “We want to make sure everyone in Teesdale who has to live with dementia can have a twiddlemuff – they are free of charge. If you have a loved one who lives in Teesdale and you think they would benefit, call and see us.”
In addition to twiddlemuffs, Mrs Singleton has also made ten twiddle handbags. These are on sale for £20 each, with proceeds going towards the access forum’s running costs.
For more details about twiddlemuffs, twiddle handbags and the help available for people living with dementia, the Teesdale Disability Access Forum shop, in Market Place, Barnard Castle, is open Monday to Thursday, 9am to 3pm, or call 01833 631000.

NEW recruits are being sought for a weekly armchair exercise class.
The class is aimed at older and disabled people and is organised by Teesdale Disability Access Forum at Barnard Castle Methodist church hall every Thursday from noon to 1pm.
The forum’s chief officer Anne Henderson said she was hoping more people would sign up and give it a go in the new year.
“As we get older or suffer from a long term illness or disability, we become frailer,” said Ms Henderson.
“Studies have shown that we can improve our mental and physical health at any age through regular, gentle exercise.”
She added: “We would like to invite members of our community who are unable to take part in regular exercise to come and join our weekly armchair exercise class.”
The sessions are led by a specialist instructor and all activities are done seated and to music.
“It is fun, but at the same time you are getting stronger and healthier,” said Ms Henderson.
“Come and give it a go and see if you like it. When people have come along, they tend to come back time and time again.”
The classes are free and open to anyone living in Teesdale.
To book a place or for further information, call Ms Henderson on 01833 631000, email teesdaledisability@btinternet.com or call into the shop at 5 Market Place, Barnard Castle. The access forum is a charity which provides resources and support for older people, the disabled and their families and carers.
In addition to armchair exercises, services include the loan of wheelchair and mobility aids, incontinence resources and support and a home independence project.
Through its various projects, the access forum provides help and support for about 5,000 people a year.