On Tuesday 24th February, from 2pm-4pm, Care UK’s Priors House, on Old Milverton 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 (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 “Staying connected: A guide to dementia-friendly conversations” session at Priors House, will be led by dementia expert and Co-Founder of Dementia Pathfinders, Barbara Stephens. The event will explore practical ways to communicate more effectively with people living with dementia, while offering simple strategies to stay connected, reduce frustration, and create more meaningful moments in everyday life.

Francine Summers, Home Manager at Priors 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 Leamington Spa.”

In addition to the event, the Leamington Spa 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 Priors House and to book your place for the event, please call Customer Relations Manager, Sarah Mitchell on 01926 675217 or email sarah.mitchell@careuk.com

Priors House, which is rated ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC, is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the home has its very own cinema and hair salon, and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.