Football Memories groups have been held at Pittodrie Stadium 2 to 3 times a week for nearly two years, and provide excellent mental stimulation to those attending by focusing on past football matches, great goals and famous players. The Aberdeen based groups are run by Alzheimer Scotland staff and volunteers, with the support of AFC Community Trust (AFCCT), Aberdeen Football Club and Sodexo Prestige.
AFCCT Chief Executive Ally Prockter said, “The Football Memories programme does a fantastic job of using football to jog memories and allows participants to relive happy footie times. To see these groups laughing and joking about who scored what goal and when, and discussing which teams were the best ever, is great to see. I am delighted that UEFA has recognised the value of what is already being done at many clubs, and this continued work with Alzheimer Scotland is another very good example of how football can play its part in supporting local communities….no matter what team people support. Football is far more than ‘just a game’, especially to these groups.”
AFCCT recently received Dementia Friendly Communities funding from the Life Changes Trust. The continuing support of the existing Football Memories programme is seen as just one more way in which AFCCT can help raise awareness regarding dementia, and to support those living with it. AFC’s Scott Brown has stepped forward to be the Ambassador for the Trust’s work regarding dementia, as he recognises this as a very important community issue which he is keen to support.
