On Wednesday 18th February, from 2pm-4pm, Care UK’s Buchanan Court on Sudbury Hill, 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 they avoid visiting relatives living 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 “Adjusting to a dementia diagnosis” session at Buchanan Court will be led by dementia expert and Co-Founder of Dementia Pathfinders Barbara Stephens. The event will explore how a journey with dementia might unfold following a diagnosis and how to live positively with the condition.
Laurentiu Iordachescu, Home Manager at Buchanan Court, 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 are 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 Harrow.”
In addition to the event, the Harrow 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 Buchanan Court and to book your place for the event, please call Customer Relations Manager, Lorelei Shepherd on 020 3504 7077, email lorelei.shepherd@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/buchanan-court.
Buchanan Court provides full-time residential, dementia and nursing care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable its residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own cinema room, pub and hair and beauty salon, and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.