Gordon

Building a life after everything changes

When Gordon's wife, Anne, moved into a care home four years ago, life changed dramatically. After 69 years of marriage, Anne's dementia had progressed to the point where she needed full-time care, leaving Gordon living alone for the first time in his adult life. "After living with someone for 60-odd years, suddenly you're on your own."

Recognising the risk of isolation, Gordon's daughter encouraged him to get involved with Link. She brought him along to Link Thursdays and, as Gordon puts it, "It just clicked. It really did."

One day, a member of the Link team noticed Gordon walking around town on his own and after chatting a while, invited him to join a friendship table at a local café.

That simple invitation became the start of a new chapter. Now 91, Gordon enjoys a busy social calendar. He attends Link Thursdays each week, uses Readibus to bring him to shop in Wokingham, which he combines with attending the Friendship Table at the Sedero Lounge on Mondays, bowling sessions and the Gentlemen's Friendship Group.

Seeing familiar faces throughout the week has helped him build friendships, maintain his independence and stay connected to his community. "I've ended up being involved on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, and I think that's the important thing."

The Sedero Lounge hosts a Link friendship table on Monday mornings, usually seven, eight or nine people, a free cup of coffee, and conversation until midday. "Instead of wandering around on my own, I'm meeting people."

He's honest about the harder parts. "The worst bit is from about five o'clock until bedtime. That's a long evening." But having people and things to look forward to makes a difference.

"You meet people, you've got something to do. People don't have to be on their own if they know about it."

While Gordon continues to face the challenges that come with having a loved one living with dementia, Link has helped him find purpose, companionship and a renewed sense of belonging.

"As long as I can keep coming here, going to the coffee mornings and doing a bit of bowls, I'll keep going."

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