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Older members of a community launch poetry book

Older person writing in a book

A book of poetry was recently published on National Poetry Day, but one with a twist, as the poems found inside are written by older members of Windsor community. Older people are faced with many challenges, whether it’s living with dementia or struggling with low mobility and having to install home stair lifts. The poems in this book provide an insight into their everyday lives.

The programme is supported by Sue Holderness, a famous actress known for her role of Marlene in ‘Only Fools and Horses’, who is an ambassador for dementia after witnessing first-hand how it can affect your loved ones. Sue partakes in various projects to help raise awareness and improve the lives of those living with dementia. In the poetry book, Sue has written the foreword as well as contributing a poem about her parents.

Entitled ‘Rhymes in Our Times’, the project was started by care providers Optalis, in Wokingham where the team have been gathering poems and arranging the launch of the book since March. The head of non-regulated services, Julie Harris, came up with the idea. Julie comments to The Royal Borough Observer: “When you read the poetry book, you become captivated by the art created by our customers. It’s been a cathartic experience, giving them a chance to relive some of their fondest memories whilst being creative.

“To ensure they got the most out of the activity, we supported their creative process by showing them photographs and recording the thoughts that the images evoked. In another activity, we invited them to reflect on their past achievements by considering what their hands would say if they could speak. We also held reminiscence sessions, encouraging people to recollect cherished childhood poetry. Overall, it’s been an amazing experience. The work in Rhymes of our Times has already enthralled readers, and we’re excited to now be sharing the inspiring work with the general public.”

If you’re interested in reading the poetry book yourself, you can find it in libraries across Wokingham, Windsor and Maidenhead. All the proceeds from the book will be used to help older people living in care homes.  

This news article is from Companion Stairlifts. Articles that appear on this website are for information purposes only.