"Cherry Ward: What it's like to have memory loss, but to be helped"

Posted on behalf of a patient on Cherry Ward (older people's mental health) at Highbury Hospital:

I have long term memory loss, it's awful. I can talk to people, like I am now, but once they've gone I won't even remember having spoken to them. I have to write everything down, I carry a notepad with me. At the top of the notepad I write my name because if I didn't I wouldn't remember my name.

I can't fault the care I get here. I am able to be independent here and I can get myself up and sort myself out. Although I sometimes forget what time it is or what I need to be doing at a specific time (like breakfast) they never let me forget a part of my routine, they help me because they know I struggle with it.

The notice board really helps me. I check it first thing in the morning and if it's up to date then I know what's going to happen in the day, I know the date and I can be clear about what I'm going to do that day.

The staff never rush me, and never rush them. We look after each other.

The things they put in place for me allow me to be independent, especially the notice board. I wouldn't be able to have this kind of independence at home, this is why Cherry Ward is the best place for me to be. This is a safe place for me, and I feel safe. I don't have to worry about all the usual daily worries - like answering the door to strangers, or paying bills. Everything is done for me.

Diane (who runs the activity groups) and Jane (Physio TI) are brilliant, they keep me on my feet and encourage me to get involved in groups like movement and music, or the giant crossword. If I forget what time it is, then they come and fetch me to make sure I am able to join in. I just think they're brilliant. I enjoy every minute of the activities.