Dementia nurses issue Bonfire Night advice

Specialist dementia nurses said firework displays can cause "confusion and anxiety" for patients

Families have been urged to take extra care of relatives living with dementia during Bonfire Night celebrations.

Nurses from Guernsey's Health and Social Care department who specialise in dementia treatment said events like firework displays can lead to "confusion and anxiety" for people with the condition.

They said people caring for relatives should try to create a calm environment by closing curtains, playing familiar music or television shows and surrounding relatives with anything which comforted them.

"Some people will need a little extra support over the next couple of weeks, so do what you can to help those who need it most," the nurses said.

The nurses said people should explain to relatives with dementia fireworks make loud noises and were nothing to worry about.

They said vulnerable people attending displays should consider wearing ear plugs or defenders to suppress loud noises.

They added avoiding large crowds was advisable to stop people becoming "overwhelmed" and families might want to consider alternative activities like a meal or games their loved ones might enjoy.