On Thursday 19th February, from 6pm–8pm, Care UK’s Ridley Manor, in Lane End, 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 (96%) 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 Ridley Manor 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 dementia.   Estelle Adriaans, Home Manager at Ridley Manor, 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 High Wycombe.”   In addition to the event, the High Wycombe 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 Ridley Manor and to book your place for the event, please call Customer Relations Manager, Hayley Devereaux on 01494 853 669 or email hayley.devereaux@careuk.com.   Ridley Manor provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, the home incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, including a cinema, hair and beauty salon and café.