On Wednesday 11th March at 12pm-2.30pm, Care UK’s Brook Court on Oldnall 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 ‘Supporting the Carer’ session at Brook Court will be led by Jo Crossland, Head of Nursing, Care and Dementia for Care UK. The event 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.

Shirley Summerbell, Home Manager at Brook 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 Kidderminster.”

In addition to the event, the Kidderminster 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.

Brook Court is a state-of-the-art care home that provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. It features 67 en-suite bedrooms and has been designed to enable its residents to lead active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The care home incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair and beauty salon and café.

For more information about Brook Court and to book your place for the event, please call Customer Relations Manager Carina Harris on 01562 814610, email carina.harris@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/care-homes/brook-court-kidderminster-worcestershire.