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 Brits 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.

The ‘Adjusting to a diagnosis of dementia’ session at Dashwood Manor will be led by dementia expert Barbara Stephens, CEO of Dementia Pathfinders, and will provide insights into how people’s journey with dementia might unfold following a diagnosis. It will also offer advice on how to live positively with dementia, while making emotional and practical adjustments along the way.

Dashwood Manor will host three further events throughout February, including a ‘Typical signs of ageing or dementia?’ talk on Tuesday 4th February, a ‘Let’s talk about dementia’ session on Wednesday 12th February, and a ‘Supporting people with advanced dementia’ event on Thursday 27th February. All talks will be presented by team member Leahanne Wilkinson and will run from 2-4pm before being repeated from 6-8pm.

In addition to the events, the Basingstoke community can also visit a newly launched online advice hub. The hub includes in-depth conversations with families of people living with dementia, as well as expert advice from Care UK’s dementia specialists to learn how to reduce the risks and symptoms of the condition.  

Dil Perera, Home Manager at Dashwood Manor, said: “When an older relative starts acting out of character or forgetting things, it can be a worrying time for family members.

“Most people cannot confidently differentiate between signs of old age and symptoms of dementia – nor can they picture leading a meaningful life once diagnosed. We want to change this, which is why we’re thrilled to be taking part in the Big Dementia Conversation once again by hosting our own free advice event.

“We’d like to encourage the local community to join us; together, we can build a more dementia-friendly Basingstoke.”