A Rushcliffe man living with dementia is spreading the word about the benefits of writing and reciting poetry for people with the condition.
Tony Robinson, 92, stars in a new video, performing a poem about his childhood in the hope of inspiring those with dementia to connect with words and rediscover their identities.
In the video, produced by local videographer Sam Lindley, Tony explains how poetry helps him unlock treasured memories and retain his ability to communicate, alleviating confusion and frustration while providing vital reassurance.
“Poetry keeps you in touch with words… and you can remember those words because they are your making – nobody else’s,” he says.
Tony, a former businessman from Keyworth, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2023 but noticed the first signs of the condition five years ago, during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he began to forget words.
Frustrated by his sudden decline in health, he searched for an outlet that would lift his mood and potentially improve his cognitive skills. That’s when he discovered his love for poetry.
Christopher Tansley, Managing Director of Right at Home Nottingham, which provides dementia care and support for Tony and his wife Jackie at their home in Keyworth, said:
“Tony has always been a social person, and poetry provides him with an outlet to express his emotions and life experiences through creative language. It has nourished his imagination and enabled him to engage with the world around him.”
With the support of Right at Home, Tony intends to share his video and connect with social groups in Nottingham, inspiring those with dementia to express themselves through poetry.
Sharing his message of hope, he said:
“Action is the vehicle, tenacity is your fuel. Don’t give in, and believe you can still do the things you love.”
Right at Home Nottingham is a locally owned homecare provider, delivering specialist care and support services to adults in their own homes.
Its person-centred Dementia Support Programme has helped Tony and others with the condition to engage in local activities that provide mental stimulation and help alleviate dementia symptoms, allowing families to enjoy precious moments together.
Christopher added:
“Our team can provide a tailored dementia support plan, using proven strategies to enhance wellbeing and reassurance for the person living with dementia.
“Our comprehensive guidance covers cognitive health and essential areas like nutrition, stress reduction, effective communication, memory support, and improved sleep. We also aim to replace misinformation with facts and cultivate a sense of hope.”
