Dementia Case Study - David's Story
David McAdam’s love of football is still evident in many ways and the care team at Mount Pleasant near Burton-on-Trent uses this knowledge of his past history to encourage him to enjoy life. Now 93, and living with dementia David started playing football as a young lad and turned professional when he was 26.
While his age and health don’t allow him to run any longer, he can still ‘head’ a balloon, do ‘kicks’ during Oomph! sessions and sing well-known chants.
At the age of 16, in 1939, David was stationed in Burma during his national service, and captained the football team for the 1st Wiltshire Regiment. David’s wife, Alice, says: “Dave was talent-spotted playing for a local side in 1948 and signed to play for Leeds professionally. He was there for four seasons.”
Subsequently, David played left back for Wrexham, Matlock and Burton Albion during a career that spanned more than 12 years.
Before turning professional, David worked at Branston as a warehouseman and he returned to the company afterwards. Well-liked amongst colleagues, with a large network of friends, he was known for his good company. “Dave was always good at making jokes and people always wanted him to write their speeches. He was always wanting everyone to have a good laugh,” remembers Alice fondly.
Nowadays, David doesn’t have the concentration to watch a football match and, in common with many people living with dementia, he doesn’t like noise.
Home Manager at Mount Pleasant, Nikki Kelly, says: “We have a quiet lounge, which doesn’t have a TV and David likes to spend time in there. He also clearly enjoys the outdoors and likes to be in our secure garden with other residents and carers whenever he can.”
Activities Co-ordinator Eve Connolly says: “A game of dominoes is another great favourite, which David often plays when his family visits.”
He puts his glasses on and you can see him concentrating and working out his next move. It’s a feature of his condition that he can sometimes get very frustrated, but dominoes seems to calm him and gets him talking.”
“In those days they didn’t get paid the huge amounts they do now and it wasn’t televised of course. During the season they got £12 a week plus £2 for a win and £1 for a draw. Out of season, they often worked on the grounds to earn money.”
Mount Pleasant care home in Burton-upon-Trent provides residential and dementia care to up to 50 elderly residents. The home is surrounded by stunning and beautiful countryside which provides a sense of peace and tranquillity. Personal, tailored care plans are put in place for all residents and the dedicated staff team work closely with residents, their families and loved ones to build close relationships and offer a real home from home environment.
The best way to find out more about life at Mount Pleasant is to book a visit to meet Nikki Kelly, Home Manager and her team. Alternatively, please contact the home for more information. Call 0808 223 5527 or email [email protected].
