On Wednesday 4th March from 5pm–6pm, Care UK’s Ivy Grove on Hatch 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 ten people (39%) said they avoid visiting relatives with dementia because of how difficult it can be, and nearly all of those polled (93%) 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 Friends session at Ivy Grove will be led by Elizabeth Campbell-Black, a dementia adviser from the Alzheimer's Society. The event will provide an opportunity to learn more about dementia, how it can affect people as they age and what carers can do to support a loved one living with the condition. 

Ivy Grove also runs regular dementia-friendly events, including Fish and Chips Friday for over 65s on the last Friday of every month, from 2.30-3.30pm, and the Coffee and Craft Café on the second Thursday of every month, from 11am-12pm. 

Jacob Mante, General Manager at Ivy Grove, 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 Chingford.” 

In addition to the event, the Chingford 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.  

Ivy Grove provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The home incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, with the layout of the building configured to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among residents. Designed to support active and fulfilling lifestyles while promoting independence, Ivy Grove boasts a beautiful accessible garden, en suite bathrooms in every room and its own hair and beauty salon. 

For more information about Ivy Grove and to book your place for the event, please call Customer Relations Manager April Jones on 020 3797 0198, email april.jones@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/ivy-grove.