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On the eve of World Alzheimer’s Day Roy Jenkins explores the role of faith for those living with dementia. Dementia is a progressive disease that impairs memory, and the condition affects more than 40,000 people across Wales.

Robert Atwell, Bishop of Exeter, discusses the nature and value of faith for people living with the condition. We hear how imagery and touch are vital in crafting accessible worship, and how music also can be particularly powerful in reaching people in advanced stages of dementia. Maggie Grady, a music therapist, explains how the charity Mindsong uses music to help unlock deeply buried memories.

We explore what faith groups can do to become more ‘dementia friendly’, and we hear from the Diocese of St. Asaph in North Wales, which has worked hard to reach this status. Bob Woods, an Emeritus Professor at Bangor University, explains the importance of listening to the needs of people living with the condition, and how the university has helped churches on this journey. We hear how the Hindu community in Cardiff is challenging the stigma surrounding dementia. Versha Sood explains the ways in which the community is supporting its families to live well with the condition, and to uphold their faith.