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A project in Cornwall is helping combat loneliness experience by people with dementia.

Side by Side, which is run by the charity, Alzheimer's Society, matches volunteers and people who have dementia, based on shared interests.

Helpers give up what time they can spare to accompany the dementia partner on activities ranging from football matches, strolls and garden centre visits to simply having a chat over a cup of tea or on the phone.

"I am currently supporting a person to play bowls every week," said one volunteer, who asked only to be named as Lesley. "This is a hobby they love but gave up many years ago. They decided to restart it with my help as a volunteer through Side by Side."

She said that the training given by Alzheimer's Society and the experience of supporting somebody made her feel fulfilled and more confident.

"I have enjoyed everything about volunteering, but I especially enjoy seeing the person's smile when I see them at the start of our time together and their laughter and enjoyment whilst sharing their activity is a wonderful thing," said Lesley.

In Devon, combating isolation is a key aim of Plymouth Dementia Action Alliance (PDAA) which involves more than 60 organisations and businesses working together. The pioneering initiative has attracted interest from other countries including China, Japan and Italy and led to Plymouth being named the Dementia Friendly City of the Year in 2016.

Outside the city, five parishes around the Yealm river have come together to improve the lives of people with dementia and their carers.

"People living with dementia in a rural community also have problems such as lack of transport which can add to the sense of loneliness and isolation," said Ian Sherriff, who is chairman of the PDAA.

Alzheimer's Society is particularly keen to hear from people living in Newquay, St Austell and south-east Cornwall who want to support Side by Side. Contact John Naismith through john.naismith@alzheimers.org.uk or on 01752 608 911 for more details.

For information generally about dementia go to Alzheimer's Society website or call the national helpline, 0300 222 1122.

To mark Dementia Awareness Week, world-leading researchers working on the set of diseases at the University of Exeter are offering their insights.

Dr Jo Thompson Coon and Dr Rebecca Whear say research shows that gardens and mealtime music in care homes can improve lives for dementia residents.

Spending time in a garden or outdoor space can be relaxing and calming for residents, their families and staff.

A key finding was a "promising impact" on the level of agitation in care home residents with dementia who spend time in a garden.

Families valued somewhere pleasant to meet that stimulated interest and conversation, and staff said residents found the gardens calming.

Research also shows that playing relaxing music at a mealtime when agitated or aggressive behaviour can occur tends to have a particularly long-lasting effect, beyond that of the mealtime itself.

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Side by Side to combat dementia in Cornwall - Cornwall Live