The young-onset dementia group brings together people under the age of 65 living with dementia, and their carers, to share experiences, access practical support and connect with others facing similar challenges.
The group utilises the research and expertise available at the University, as well as providing valuable experience for students to get involved.
Former teacher Wendy Whittaker, 60, is among those to attend the group since it launched earlier this year.
Wendy was diagnosed after her right hip collapsed and she began to stutter.
Once a private maths teacher, she now struggles with memory loss, numbers and finding words.
“Sometimes I find myself wandering around Tesco. I know exactly what I’ve got to buy, but as soon as I walk into that store, I haven’t got a clue,” she said.
“The whole thing is really horrible. It’s not just the everyday; it’s about what lies ahead of you, and it’s scary.”
After spending three or four months alone at home coming to terms with her diagnosis, Wendy discovered the University’s Health, Wellbeing and Care Hub and its young-onset dementia group.
For Wendy, it has transformed her outlook.
“I felt like my whole life had imploded. I had nothing left,” she said.
“Then I saw this group here, and it’s made such a big difference. I really look forward to coming because we understand each other.
“When I sat at home I was really sad and desolate. But here we are, laughing, having fun and taking the mick.”
Fellow group member Clive Croucher, 62, from Clacton, attends with his wife, Jayne.
He has Lewy body dementia, which has affected his independence and forced him to give up work as a forklift truck operator.
The couple have had to rethink their future while navigating the daily challenges of his condition.
“Night times can be hard,” said Jayne.
“Clive can be kicking and punching in his sleep, and has even been known to take lightbulbs out. We laugh about it, and that’s how we deal with it.”
The couple have been attending the group for several months and enjoy connecting with people with similar experiences.
“The people here are terrific,” Clive said. “You couldn’t ask for anything more from them.
“I like bantering with the students, and it gets me out of the house and talking to people. You can really be yourself here and feel comfortable.”
Sarah Watson, an occupational therapist who runs the group, says connecting with people of a similar age can help reduce the isolation and uncertainty that follow a diagnosis.
She adds that young-onset dementia is largely misunderstood, despite Dementia UK calculating there are more than 70,000 people diagnosed with the disease.
Sarah said: “This is why the group is so important to those who attend. It provides a safe, supportive, and understanding environment where people can meet others of a similar age, share experiences, access information, and build meaningful connections.
“For many attendees and their support networks, the group has become a lifeline, helping them come to terms with their diagnosis while focusing on living well and preparing positively for the future.”
Initially running for 12 weeks, the group now meets monthly at Clingoe House on Essex’s Colchester Campus.
Anyone interested in finding out more information should contact the Hub via healthwellbeingcare@essex.ac.uk
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