2 days Ago
Two care homes in Suffolk are inviting local people to their free dementia advice events. Care UK’s Mills Meadow, in Framlingham, and Hartismere Place, in Eye, are inviting members of the community to two special events as part of The Big Dementia Conversation, a nationwide initiative designed to show people how to better understand common symptoms and live well with the condition. While general awareness of the condition has improved, data from Care UK shows two thirds of people who have a relative living with dementia (62%) initially put their symptoms down to old age.
Many remain unaware of the ways older people can lead meaningful lives with the condition, prompting Care UK to relaunch its Big Dementia Conversation for the second year running. At Mills Meadow, on Wednesday January 29, between 10.30am and noon, a Dementia Café will be led by Zoe Cotgrave, the home’s Dementia Coach.
Attendees will be able to share their experiences, meet other people, and take part in fun activities, while getting valuable advice and support and enjoying free freshly baked cakes. Peter Berry, Framlingham community champion, will give a 45-minute talk on living with dementia. On Wednesday February 12, from 10.
30am-12.30pm, a ‘Typical Signs of Ageing or Dementia?’ session at Hartismere Place will be led by the home’s Senior Customer Relations Manager Angela Hodge. Angela will share insights into typical signs of ageing and how symptoms differ from dementia, as well as providing guidance on how to live well with dementia.
A newly launched online advice hub is also available for in-depth conversations with families of people living with dementia, as well as expert advice from Care UK’s dementia specialists. Kate Smith, Home Manager at Mills Meadow, said: “Most people cannot picture leading a meaningful life once diagnosed. We want to change this.
" Claire Martin, Home Manager at Hartismere Place, said: “Our ‘Typical Signs of Ageing or Dementia?’ event will be an opportunity to meet other people in similar circumstances and gain valuable insights. Together, we can build a more dementia-friendly Suffolk.” To book a place at the event, please visit careuk.
com/hartismere-place and careuk.com/mills-meadow To support people who may be experiencing symptoms of dementia or their loved ones, Care UK has set up a free helpline and advice hub at: areuk.com/bigdementiaconversation.
