Martin Young, one of our own Dunstable u3a members, will talk to us about managing dementia by drawing on past skills. He says:

"Men are living longer.  These men have worked in many manual trades during their careers.  Because they are living longer, more men are entering residential care. Giving up in many instances their hobbies and workshops where they have used their skills to solve problems when making things.  

Currently, there are very few manual activities available for men in residential homes.  Things are slowly changing, and the project I have been running for the past three years is proving to be a valuable addition to those currently available.

Public Liability insurance and trained supervision I feel are the key factors regarding the perceived high risks with residential homes providing workshops with machine tools.  But, there are ways to reduce the risks.

The project is not a commercial venture!  It is based on community groups working together for the benefit of all."