On Thursday 19th February, from 3pm-5pm, Care UK’s Foxbridge House on Sevenoaks Road, 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 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 “Typical signs of ageing or dementia” session at Foxbridge House will be led by Georgina Marshal, the home’s Dementia champion. The event will provide an opportunity to learn more about the typical signs of ageing and how symptoms differ from dementia and give guidance on how to live well with the condition. 

Stella Barnes, Home Manager at Foxbridge 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 Orpington.” 

In addition to the event, the Orpington 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 to help relatives overcome communication barriers and interact more easily and confidently with loved ones living with dementia. To find out more, please visit careuk.com/bigdementiaconversation 

For more information about Foxbridge House and to book your place for the event, please call Customer Relations Manager, Dorothy Ayonmike on 01689 769 229, email dorothy.ayonmike@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/foxbridge-house 

Foxbridge House has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and enable residents to lead active and fulfilling lives. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care, and has its very own cinema, hair and beauty salon and pub.