Duncan’s football life with dementia

For 92-year-old Duncan Ferguson, the cheering crowds, the feel of the ball at his feet, and the camaraderie of his teammates aren’t just distant memories. Despite living with dementia, his passion for football remains an integral part of his life, proving that a diagnosis doesn’t have to sideline the things we love.

Duncan is one of the 90,000 individuals in Scotland living with dementia. To ensure his wellbeing and allow him to remain in his be

loved Glasgow community, his family turned to The Good Care Group for live-in care. This support has been instrumental in enabling Duncan to continue engaging with the activities that bring him joy.

A person-centred approach

Recognising the unique needs of individuals living with dementia, Healthcare Improvement Scotland has emphasised the importance of person-centred care plans. Aligning with this, we launched our EVER model of dementia care. EVER, which stands for ‘Engagement, Validation, Enrichment and Relationships,’ places the individual at the heart of care by focusing on what truly matters to them.

For Duncan and his family, this approach has made a huge difference. When it became clear that living alone was no longer sustainable, the decision to have a live-in carer was made. Now, Duncan benefits from the dedicated support of two carers who work on a two-week rotation, ensuring consistent and personal care.

Supporting Duncan’s social and sporting life

Pauline Cooper, one of Duncan’s devoted carers, shares a glimpse into his routine: “A retired Doctor of Anaesthesia, Duncan has lived alone since the loss of his beloved wife, and it’s really important for him to interact with other people after having such a busy career.”

For Duncan, Wednesday morning football is an important part of his routine; “We take him to Toryglen Football Centre, where there is a walking dementia football group,” Pauline explains with warmth. “This is his favourite activity, and he once played for Queen’s Park Strollers as the Captain and loves to organise the other people who play.”
For Duncan’s daughter, Donna, witnessing her father’s continued involvement in football is deeply meaningful. “My father’s always been athletic,” she says. “Since his diagnosis, when he’s playing football, he’s not thinking or worrying, he’s just enjoying life. Mixing with other people is so important.”

Donna also reflects on the challenges her family has faced: “My mother had multiple sclerosis, and so they didn’t get out to

o much, so this has been so beneficial in terms of getting him out of the house.” The walking football group offers Duncan not only physical activity but also vital social interaction, avoiding potential isolation and fostering a sense of community.

The benefits extend beyond the game itself. Afterwards, the players and coaches gather for a “football memories” session, sharing stories and reliving past glories. For Duncan, the simple pleasures are profound. As he himself says, “I enjoy playing football with other people, and they give us tea and biscuits!”

Making a difference with live-in care

Pauline’s dedication highlights the impact of person-centred care. “I personally leave at the end of my rotation, knowing I have done everything I can, to the best of my ability, to make living with dementia the best it can possibly be.” Her words resonate with the core values of The Good Care Group – to provide compassionate and empowering support.

Dr Jane Pritchard, Admiral Nurse at The Good Care Group, emphasises the wider significance of Duncan’s story: “It’s so important to draw attention to the positive impact that social connection can have for people living with dementia.” She highlights the crucial role of enabling individuals to remain in their own homes for as long as possible, linking it to better outcomes and quality of life.

The EVER model is already making a difference. “After launching our new model of dementia care, carers have said that they are now full of ideas of things to try with the person, and others have said that it gives them even greater confidence in doing their jobs,” Jane explains. “We hope that this is starting to have an impact on the people living with dementia we care for, and their families. Sometimes it’s the small things that make a big difference.”

Duncan’s story is a powerful reminder that life with dementia can still be rich and fulfilling. Through dedicated care, a focus on individual passions, and the unwavering support of loved ones and carers, moments of joy and connection can continue, even on the football pitch.