SCHOOLCHILDREN in Blaenau Ffestiniog have helped prove “there is life after diagnosis of dementia”.

Over recent months, a care centre in Blaenau Ffestiniog has been central in an innovative social experiment, the results of which are “astonishing” according to scientists.

In a the new series of three emotional programmes on S4C, Hen Blant Bach shows what can happen when six children share their day care with a group of pensioners - and the potential transformational effects it can have.

Three day centres - in Blaenau Ffestiniog, Garnant and Bangor – have taken part in the experiment where hidden cameras follow elderly people and children as they eat, play and build relationships with each other over three days.

In addition, two psychologists from Bangor University listen in and set activities to bring the two generations closer together.

This weekend (Sunday, 17 December) Blaenau Ffestiniog’s day centre will come under the spotlight as local nursery children aged three and four visit the centre.

Dr Nia Williams is one of the psychologists from Bangor University taking part in the programme. She specialises in the development of children. She said: “The period up to the age of four is a key stage for children. What we want to know is what impact spending time with older people will have on this development.”

Dr Catrin Hedd Jones, a psychologist and lecturer in dementia studies at The School of Healthcare Sciences, Bangor University Bangor University, said: “Solitude can be an increasing problem as people get older and we know the older generation has so much to offer. In this way, older people have the opportunity to contribute rather than simply to receive care.

By bringing children into their company, older people are encouraged to move and get out of their seats to enjoy activities with the children.”

One of the elderly people who benefited from the experience was Elizabeth Mia Williams, or Beti, who is 82.

Beti lives with a diagnosis of dementia that often affects her mood.

Spending time with the children bought up happy and sad memories for her but according to Dr Catrin Hedd Jones, the experience made a real difference.

“We all know that dementia is a condition that declines over time,” says Dr Catrin Hedd Jones.

“But we’ve seen during this experience that’s it’s so important for people like Beti to have happy periods.

“The change we saw in Beti over the three days was great. She went from being quite confused to being a happy person and by the last day she was singing and remembering happier times from her youth. There is life after diagnosis of dementia and Beti’s proven that.”

Hen Blant Bach will broadcast on Sunday 17 December at 8pm on S4C.