Care UK’s Weald Heights, on Bourchier Close, is inviting members of the community to two special events as part of The Big Dementia Conversation, a nationwide initiative designed to show people how to better understand some of the more common symptoms that may be experienced 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 (93%) 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.
On Saturday 21st February, from 3pm-4.30pm, the team is inviting those living with dementia and their loved ones to a dementia-friendly afternoon tea. Visitors will be treated to traditional sandwiches, home-made cakes and scones with cream and jam, in a relaxed homely setting.
On Monday 23rd February, from 2.30pm-4pm, the team will be leading a Symptoms of Advancing Dementia session. They will be sharing insights into the transition from moderate to advanced dementia, discussing what happens in the brain as the condition progresses and ways to support loved ones with changing emotional and physical needs. They’ll also be the opportunity to meet others in similar situations and share experiences.
Maria Covington, Home Manager at Weald Heights, 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 and special afternoon tea.
“We encourage the local community to join us for our special events so that together, we can build a more dementia-friendly Sevenoaks.”
In addition to the event, the Sevenoaks 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 dementia specialists.
They can also obtain a free guide titled ‘Staying connected: A guide to dementia-friendly conversations’. Packed with practical tips, the guide is designed to help relatives overcome communication barriers and interact more easily and confidently with loved ones living with the condition.
For more information about Weald Heights and to book your place for the event, please call Customer Relations Manager, Amelia Moore, on 01732 809 189, or email amelia.moore2@careuk.com
To support people who may be experiencing symptoms of dementia or their loved ones, Care UK has set up a free advice hub. To find out more, please visit careuk.com/bigdementiaconversation
Weald Heights is a purpose-built care home designed to deliver luxury hotel-style comfort for residents, complete with a café, hair and beauty salon, cinema and beautiful gardens. The home is divided into separate residential, nursing and dementia care suites, encouraging close-knit communities where residents can get to know each other, and where people with similar needs can be cared for together.