February 14th at 2pm there was a mood of reflection.I witnessed Individuals enjoying the warmth of a rare moment of sunlight through the window. With this warmth came a sense of peace, and many seemed to be enveloped in a dreamy contemplative state. A small Valentines glass of wine was also enhancing this state of calm….!
I have just begun, this week, to document a group of elderly people who all have one thing in common: varying degrees of dementia.
It is said to be very difficult to be locked inside your head, and not have possession of all your faculties. My early findings however, when spending time with these beautiful characters, tell me that in the right company, and with good stimulus, life can actually be very fulfilling. The quality of care and attention to detail in a home such as this, can make a huge difference. The difference between a life of isolation and confusion,or one of love, camaraderie and self worth. My mum is one of these residents. My sisters and I have spent agonising hours coming to terms with the fact that we cannot, with all our many commitments, take her into our own homes at this stage in our lives. I am so uplifted to find that her life is rich and vibrant during the hours she is without us. My aim over the next few weeks is to spend some time capturing some of that spirit that surrounds her, and some of her fellow residents. I would like to convey through my images some of the joy and passion that these elderly people are able to experience in each others’ company. You will see below I have already begun….
