On Friday 20th March, from 12pm-2pm, Care UK’s The Hollies, on Drake Lane, 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 (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.

The dementia drop-in session at The Hollies will be led by dementia expert, Linda Dawes. The event will explore how a journey with dementia might unfold following a diagnosis and how to live positively with the condition.

Virginia Peachey, Customer Relations Manager at The Hollies, said: “Spending quality time with loved ones living with dementia is incredibly important, but we know many families find it challenging.

“While dementia may affect the way a loved one acts or talks, it doesn’t mean that they can’t have meaningful interactions with others. That’s why we’re delighted to be opening our doors to the community as part of this year’s Big Dementia Conversation to help them break down those communication barriers.

“We look forward to welcoming local people for an informative morning/afternoon of guidance and practical tips, and we encourage those interested to book their space to avoid missing out."

In addition to the event, the Dursley 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. 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. To find out more, please visit: careuk.com/bigdementiaconversation. 

For more information about The Hollies and to book your place for the event, please call Customer Relations Manager, Virginia Peachey on virginia.peachey@careuk.com or call 01453 358672.

The Hollies is a state-of-the-art care community that provides full-time residential, dementia and nursing care, as well as short-term respite care across two homes: The Hollies and Holly Oak. Both buildings incorporate plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies and includes their own café, hair and beauty salon and bar.