Barry & Vicky
“Dementia has taken Barry’s ability to chat. But when he’s singing, it’s effortless.“
Barry McGibbon was diagnosed with dementia in 2019, just before the first Covid lockdown. As soon as they could, Barry and his wife Vicky moved from Dorset to Gloucestershire to be closer to family. “We still try to be independent,” says Vicky. “That’s why Longfield had been so good for us.”
The couple’s first visit to Longfield was an eye opener. “I was expecting Longfield to be a hospice with beds. We were surprised it didn’t have any,” recalls Vicky. “In fact, it felt more like walking into a hotel reception!”
Vicky and Barry met Rebekah, our Lead Occupational Therapist and discussed what they wanted to get from their time at Longfield. “It was a relaxed and open conversation – not formal or medical,” says Vicky.
The couple has taken part in a variety of our wellbeing sessions, including a nature course in Longfield’s extensive gardens, a baking course, gentle exercise, and reflexology.
“Barry’s condition changes week on week, so it’s hard for me to know what to do and how to help,” says Vicky. “He used to cook at home but can’t now, so it was great to see him baking again… and it’s useful for me to know what Barry can still do.”
Vicky says adjusting to Barry’s condition has been a learning curve. “Barry used to do all our banking and IT stuff. He was an IT consultant and used to fly around the world helping companies install computer systems. Now I am doing the banking and having to learn about technology.”
At the moment, the couple is attending Mindsong at Longfield: music therapy sessions. It’s a highlight of their week. “Barry struggles to find the right words or to chat to people, but when he’s singing all the songs come back to him. It’s uplifting for both of us,” says Vicky.
“I used to love singing as a child,” agrees Barry. “I still do – I’m not in tune though!”
Vicky and Barry both agree that Longfield’s support has made a difference to their wellbeing and enjoyment of life. “If you need support, go to Longfield,” says Vicky. “It’s given us a social life and a break to our routine. We couldn’t recommend you more.”