On Thursday 26th February at 2.30pm–4pm, Care UK’s Chandler Court on Recreation Road will be holding a special session as part of The Big Dementia Conversation – a nationwide initiative designed to show people how to better understand common symptoms and how it is possible to live well with the condition.  

While awareness of dementia has improved, survey data from Care UK reveals families still face challenges when it comes to communicating with loved ones. Nearly four in 10 people (39%) said they avoid visiting relatives with dementia because of how difficult it can be, and nearly all of those polled (96%) feel communication barriers prevent meaningful interaction.

To help address these challenges, Care UK has launched The Big Dementia Conversation for the third year running, encouraging practical support and greater understanding for families and communities.

The ‘Let's Talk About Dementia’ session at Chandler Court will be led by Bill Cowley, a local dementia ambassador. The event will shine a light on some less well-known aspects of dementia, as well as why a loved one may be behaving differently and what family carers can do to support them.

Rebecca Pearce, Customer Relations Manager at Chandler Court, said: “When dementia progresses and a relative begins to experience increasing cognitive impairment, it can be challenging for families and friends to know what to do or say.

“Many people find it difficult to communicate effectively with a loved one living with dementia or to connect sensitively when a family member becomes confused or disoriented. We want to change this, which is why we’re delighted to be taking part in The Big Dementia Conversation again by hosting our own free advice event.

“We encourage the local community to join us so that together we can build a more dementia-friendly Bromsgrove.”

In addition to the event, the Bromsgrove community can explore a newly launched online advice hub, which features in-depth conversations with families of people living with dementia alongside expert advice from Care UK’s specialists. They can also obtain a free guide packed with practical tips and designed to help relatives overcome communication barriers and interact more easily and confidently with loved ones living with the condition. To find out more, please visit careuk.com/bigdementiaconversation.

Chandler Court is a state-of-the-art care home that provides full-time residential, dementia and nursing care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable its residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own cinema, pub and hair and beauty salon, and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.

For more information about Chandler Court and to book your place for the event, please call Rebecca on 01527 907849, email rebecca.pearce@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/chandler-court.