On Tuesday 17th February at 10am–2pm, Care UK’s Blossomfield Grange, on Worcester Way off Dog Kennel Lane, 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 dementia advice drop-in session at Blossomfield Grange will be led by Dementia Care Coach, Fasha Bibi. The event will explore how a journey with dementia might unfold following a diagnosis and how to live positively with the condition.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to talk to members of Alzheimer’s Society, Parkinson’s with Dementia, Age UK and other community groups to learn about the support they offer.
Jag Singh, Home Manager at Blossomfield Grange, 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 Solihull.”
In addition to the event, the Solihull 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.
Blossomfield Grange provides high-quality residential, dementia and short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to lead active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, the home incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies. The building has been configured into a series of neighbourhoods to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents.