Golden Memories, funded by the Premier League and PFA, is a reminiscence programme for people living with mild to moderate dementia, is making a real difference in the local community.

The programme, delivered every week at Vicarage Road by Watford FC Community Sports and Education Trust, uses Watford FC memorabilia and moments to evoke memories. Exercises and games are integrated into the programme as well to maintain physical activity.

According to WHO, currently, more than 55 million people live with dementia worldwide, and there are nearly 10 million new cases every year. It is widely observed that there is often a lack of awareness and understanding of dementia, resulting in stigmatization and barriers to diagnosis and care.

"Often people with dementia feel very vulnerable, they feel forgotten, they feel lost," says Hannah Foster, Watford CSE Trust older adults project officer.

The physical, psychological, social and economic impacts of dementia are not only limited to the people living with it but also the carers who look after them. With workshops and support aimed at helping the carers as well, Golden Memories Programme makes sure the support team isn’t left out.

Former Watford FC player is one such individual who has benefitted from the programme. 

"For Walter it is the centre of his life," Walter's partner June Casey tells the Premier League. "We end up dancing and singing and you go home feeling that was a really nice day. And you know you have another one to look forward to next week."

Sport United Against Dementia is an initiative taken by Alzheimer’s Society in partnership with Premier League as they seek to unite the UK sports to tackle dementia.