Dementia Jersey has launched a new initiative, designed to encourage islanders to Keep Connected – and ‘boost their brain’ in the process.
‘Tea and Talk’ is focused on the principle of taking the time to meet friends or family face-to-face over a cup of tea, with the added – and perhaps surprising – benefit of helping their brain health.
Tea and Talk is part of the charity’s Boost Your Brain campaign, to encourage islanders build positive habits and reflect on their daily routines. While not all cases of dementia are avoidable, the latest research suggests that up to 45% of cases could be linked to modifiable lifestyle factors. These healthy habits can be grouped under Love Your Heart, Stay Sharp, and Keep Connected.
‘Tea and Talk’ exemplifies this message, highlighting that social connection plays an important role in brain health.
The charity is inviting the public to get together for ‘Tea and Talk’ during the month of March.
They can do this at home, using one of our DIY Tea and Talk kits, or by attending one of the charity’s partner venues. Hospitality venues Ransoms Tearooms, the Radisson Blu Hotel, and The Driftwood Cafe are all providing themed treats for the month of March – along with conversation cards to help people along the way.
For those wanting to do-it-themselves, a donation of just £5 will provide a cotton bag containing Dementia Jersey tea bags, conversation starter cards, and information, including access to a specially prepared collection of recipes from friends of the charity. These are available at Dementia Jersey’s offices or via the website.
The initiative launches with a special afternoon tea provided by Highlands College Culinary Arts students on Monday 2 nd March, 12pm. The students will provide a ‘dementia friendly’ session in the Academy Restaurant for people living with dementia and a friend or family member, highlighting importance of social connection.
Claudine Snape, CEO Dementia Jersey, said: “Tea and Talk is designed to be enjoyable – but also educational. We hope islanders will join in the fun and learn more about dementia risk reduction along the way. We’ll certainly be taking part at the Dementia Jersey office, and we urge businesses, as well as families, to make the time to have ‘Tea and Talk’ together!”
