On Tuesday 24th March from 2pm–3.30pm, Care UK’s Bowes House on Battle 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 (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 ‘Staying Connected: A guide to dementia friendly conversations’ session at Bowes House will be led by Care UK’s Specialist Dementia Lead, Alison Butler. The event will explore practical ways to communicate more effectively with people living with the condition, while offering simple strategies to stay connected, reduce frustration and create more meaningful moments in everyday life.
Lisa Phillips, Customer Relations Manager at Bowes House, 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 Hailsham.”
In addition, the Hailsham 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 to help relatives overcome communication barriers and interact more easily and confidently with loved ones living with dementia. To find out more, please visit careuk.com/bigdementiaconversation.
Bowes House is a state-of-the-art care home that provides 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 building boasts its own café, cinema and hair and beauty salon. The home offers a comprehensive activity programme, featuring a mix of themed events and group activities both inside and outside.
Bowes House invites the local community to join them on 21st March, from 10am–4pm, for their open day – a great opportunity to look around the beautiful home, meet the friendly team, and enjoy activities, entertainment, and some of its specialist homemade food.
To find out more about Bowes House and to book your place for the event, please contact Customer Relations Manager Lisa Phillips on 01323 888 611, email lisa.phillips@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/bowes-house.