On Friday 20th February at 2.30pm–4pm, Care UK’s Field Lodge on London Road, will be holding a special event 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 ten people (39%) said that 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 relaunched its Big Dementia Conversation for the third year running, encouraging practical support and greater understanding for families and communities.
The ‘Staying Connected: a Guide to Dementia-Friendly Conversations’ session at Field Lodge will be led by Home Manager Linda Martinez. The event will explore practical ways to communicate more effectively with people living with dementia, while offering simple strategies to stay connected, reduce frustration and create more meaningful moments in everyday life.
Linda 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 St Ives.”
In addition to the event, the St Ives 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.
Field Lodge is a modern, purpose-built care home providing full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to lead enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the home has a choice of lounges and dining rooms, as well as its own cinema, pub and hair and beauty salon.
For more information about Field Lodge and to book your place for the event, please call Customer Relations Manager Beverley Tyrrell on 01480 877 638, email beverley.tyrrell@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/field-lodge.