It’s a challenge trying to find ways to keep people living with advanced dementia occupied. It’s something which was constantly on Ben Relish’s mind after a loved one was diagnosed with the progressive condition in 2008.

Seeing his grandad gradually disappear in front of his eyes was tough, what made it worse was Ben felt helpless so he put his thinking cap on and started creating a series of puzzles which were suitable for Grandpa’s mental capacity. 

By delving into extensive research he started not only to learn a better understanding of the illness, he also began to develop a better knowledge of activities those living with late stages of dementia could do.

Ben launched Active Minds, now known as Relish, to ‘help improve the overall wellbeing of people with dementia by providing fun, meaningful activities that help build their relationships with their family, friends and caregivers.’

Broken down into eight levers [identity, learning, security, independence, joy, purpose, staying active and relationships] the online service offers everything from jigsaw puzzles to sensory toys to keep dementia patients minds occupied and families safe in the knowledge their loved ones are still able to make the most out of life.

It seems as if Ben Relish has found the missing piece to a jigsaw puzzle which affects 56 million people worldwide.

[ For support and advice on dementia visit the Dementia UK website. ]