On Tuesday 10th March at 11am-1pm,  Care UK’s Edgbaston Manor on Speedwell 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’ event at Edgbaston Manor will be led by Carol Bowsher from the Alzheimer's Society. The session will shine a light on some lesser-known aspects of dementia, as well as why a loved one may be behaving differently and what family carers can do to support them.

Zoe Steventon, Home Manager at Edgbaston Manor, 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.”

In addition to the event, the Edgbaston 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. 

Edgbaston Manor has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and enable residents to live active and fulfilling lives, while also promoting independence.

The home provides full-time residential, dementia and nursing care, as well as short-term respite care, and has been configured into a series of neighbourhoods to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents. There is also plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.

For more information about Edgbaston Manor, please call Customer Relations Manager Nadia Wickins on 0121 314 6976, email nadia.wickins@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/edgbaston-manor.