Helen & Joy's Dementia Story: Finding Life and Laughter Through Sage House

When Helen’s mum, Joy, was diagnosed with dementia about ten years ago, the family faced it together. “Mum and Dad managed it really well,” Helen remembers. “They didn’t let it affect their lives.”

Joy and her husband

Dad was Mum’s devoted carer, but after dad passed away in 2019, and with the isolation of the pandemic soon after, Joy’s (Mum’s) dementia began to progress more quickly. “Because Mum was alone, I think it just took a nosedive,” says Helen.

To be closer and offer more support, Helen and her husband (Russ) moved to the coast, and built an annex attached to their home for Joy to encourage independence, providing a safe and secure environment. “The first few months were quite difficult trying to care for Mum properly while also working. That’s why Sage House has been amazing for both of us.”

Together, Joy and Helen attend art sessions at Sage House and our local outreach group which they both treasure. “When we’re there, it stops being a caring role, we’re just mother and daughter again. We laugh, we do something creative, and at Outreach we sing and dance. It’s something to look forward to. Sage House is such a gift.”

Joy and Helen at a Sage House art activity

Joy now attends Day Break at Sage House twice a week, giving her companionship and structure, while giving Helen time to work and recharge. “Without Day Breaks, I’m not sure what we’d do,” Helen admits. “It would be quite a long and lonely day for Mum otherwise.”

Joy smiles and says: “Sage House, it’s a life, more of a life. Be nice if I could do it more.”

Helen agrees. “It’s good for Mum’s mobility, chatting with people, seeing familiar faces. And the volunteers are amazing. There’s just love and warmth from everybody at Sage House. It’s the most amazing place. Invaluable, really.”

Joy and Helen at a Sage House Outreach session

With Helen’s husband, two daughters and brother and sister-in-law nearby, Sage House has become an extension of their family network, a place that helps them all share the load, find fun in small moments, and make every day count.

“When you go into Sage House, everybody is so happy and lovely, friendly and upbeat. It’s just the most amazing place. It’s invaluable.” Reflects Helen.

Sage House relies on your generous donations to continue running and expanding out life-changing services. From 2nd - 23rd December 2025, every donation made to Sage House will be DOUBLED thanks to match funding, giving your gift double the impact. Click here to learn more about the difference we make and help us bring joy and activities to people with dementia this Christmas.