Merton Council – in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society and a range of local partners – are pleased to announce the launch of the “Feel Good Folders Project” in Merton. 

The Feel Good Folder is a motivational tool developed by the Alzheimer’s Society and Sport England co-designed by and for people living with dementia, encouraging more activity in our daily lives.  

Regular exercise from mid-life can reduce the risk of developing dementia by 28%. For people living with dementia it is a common misconception that they don’t have the ability to be active, which can lead to further health issues.  

Physical activity can do more good than harm, and is very important to an individual’s health and wellbeing.  For older people physical activity is one thing they can do to reduce their risk of falls, help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of frailty. 

This can be done individually or with the support of a carer, family member or professional. The folder contains health information, behaviour change activities, progress tracker, activity wallchart and a Movement Deck with activity ideas and inspiration.  

Councillor Peter McCabe, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care said:  

“As part of Merton’s Borough of Sport ambitions and our commitment to Dementia Friendly Communities we are pleased to be working with the Alzheimer’s Society on this important project in Merton.  

“The Feel Good Folders give us the tools to encourage people living with dementia and their carers to take up appropriate physical activity that is vital for our health and wellbeing.”   

With over 1800 folders available and through working with a number of local partners we aim to reach as many people living with dementia as possible.” 

Daisy Banwell, Senior Innovator at the Alzheimer’s Society said: 

“One in three people born today will develop dementia in their lifetime, and there are currently 900,000 people living with dementia in the UK. 

“We know that leading a physically active lifestyle can have a significant impact on the wellbeing of people with dementia and we are delighted to be working with Merton Council to provide Feel Good Folders. Alzheimer’s Society’s Innovation team have launched the Feel Good Folder for anyone living with dementia wanting to make a change, add more movement into their lives and feel good. Unlike generic physical activity resources this offers a co-created, accessible and motivational tool designed for people living with dementia.” 

“The Feel Good Folder has already shown it is a valuable tool for increasing levels of motivation and physical activity for people living with dementia and helping them feel better in their day-to-day lives.” 

Folders are available in all Merton libraries and through a range of partners such as Merton’s Community Dementia Service. 

For more information on the folders The Feel Good Folder helps me stay active with dementia | Alzheimer’s Society (alzheimers.org.uk) 

Alzheimer’s Society is here for everyone affected by dementia. Call the Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456 or visit alzheimers.org.uk for help and advice. 

For more information about the Merton project and how to access folders locally please email public.health@merton.gov.uk