On Tuesday 24th February, from 2pm–4pm, Care UK’s Lonsdale Mews, on Farley Way, 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 “Let’s talk about dementia” session at Lonsdale Mews will be led by dementia expert Linda Dawes. The event will shine a light on some lesser-known symptoms of dementia, while offering simple tips to better understand why loved ones may behave differently after a diagnosis.

Jo Davison, Home Manager at Lonsdale Mews, said: “Since we first opened the doors to our care home, we’ve been committed to making Quorn a more dementia-friendly place.

“We know it can feel daunting when a loved one is diagnosed, and families can find it challenging to communicate or provide support. That’s why we’re taking part in the Big Dementia Conversation: to offer practical advice and guidance that helps people communicate in ways that bring joy to loved ones living with dementia, while also enriching the experience for friends and family

“We are looking forward to welcoming local people to our event and helping to build a community-wide support network.”

In addition to the event, the Quorn 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 Lonsdale Mews and to book your place for the event, please call Customer Relations Manager, Jenny Cartwright on 01509 801587 or email jenny.cartwright@careuk.co.uk

Lonsdale Mews offers full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite. The home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hairdressing salon and café. The layout of the building is configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities.