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Access into another world
The counselors also help to find access to the world of the sick. The meeting place at Amalie-Dietrich-Platz provides practical examples: there is a clothesline with socks hanging in the toilet – an additional indication that this is where the bathroom is. In the hallway, the wardrobe is always stocked with a jacket, umbrella and hat to remind you of the function of the piece of furniture. Experience has shown that if something hangs there, people are more likely to use it. These are effective indications in a world in which the sick can no longer see clearly, says Klinger.
People with the best biographies forget things and their relatives have to change their lives.
Ulla Klinger
Gerda dementia advice
There is currently no cure for dementia and it can affect anyone. “People with the best biographies forget things and their relatives have to change their lives.” Because the disease is becoming more common due to the increasing aging of the population, the advisory center was still considering hiring new employees in the spring. But because of the city’s austerity measures, the rooms are now being emptied.
The Dresden nursing and care association, where the Gerda von Gorbitz position is based, does not have the finances to withstand a long dry spell. From January there will be no more money from the city, says Klinger. Even if the city council votes in favor of financing the Gerda positions, the decision will take months. Klinger estimates that we would receive a retroactive decision next fall. A club cannot buffer such a long blind flight.
Offers for sick people are no longer applicable
It is therefore clear that offers for sick people, such as the games, running and music groups, will no longer take place in the Gorbitzhof. According to Klinger, social contacts are particularly important for people with emerging dementia: “You don’t have to sit at home with dementia and wait until the illness takes complete control of you.” But in order to maintain social contacts, certain framework conditions are needed. It has to be quiet, there can’t be too many people and it has to be fun.
The keyboard is still next to the aquarium in which the axolotl Johnny swims. The white newt with the characteristic shaggy hair on its head will also be moving this year. The seniors in the singing group were always happy when the little guy showed up to them.
The illness changes the environment of friends and acquaintances. You’ll be amazed at which people withdraw and which tend to come along.
Dr. Heinz Fischer
takes care of his demented wife
For Ulla Klinger, the animal has symbolic power: Axolotls can regrow their limbs, as she explains. And perhaps researchers will find out the secret and develop a therapy that can regenerate the dying brain cells in dementia.
Save a group of relatives
One hope is that the groups of relatives can be transferred to another advice center in Gorbitz – namely the senior citizen meeting and advice in the Sachsen Forum on Merianplatz. “But we can’t replace Gerda. That’s a very important pillar. And it’s a huge loss,” says Gundula Ermer, a social worker there.
What are some common misconceptions about dementia that you wish more people understood?
Questions for Interview 1:
1. As a professional in the field of elder care, what do you think is the biggest challenge that families of dementia patients face today?
2. How do you think we can improve the quality of life for dementia patients and their families in our society?
3. Can you share any specific experiences or stories from your work that have particularly touched you?
4. What role do you think support groups play in helping families cope with the challenges of dementia?
Questions for Interview 2:
1. As a person living with dementia, what has been your biggest struggle in maintaining your daily routine and activities?
2. How do you think society can better support individuals with dementia and their families?
3. What do you think are some effective ways to create a more inclusive and accessible environment for individuals with dementia?
4. What advice would you give to families who are just starting to navigate the challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia?
