On Thursday 13 March, 3pm – 4pm, Care UK’s Buchanan Court, on Sudbury Hill, is inviting members of the community to a special event 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 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 ‘Supporting People with Advanced Dementia’ session at Buchanan Court will be led by Irina Barnoschi and will shine a light on how the brain changes during the advanced stages of dementia and how people can support their loved ones with their changing physical and emotional needs, and behaviours. Complimentary refreshments will also be available.

Buchanan Court also runs a Dementia Café on the last Wednesday of every month, providing a safe and friendly space for individuals affected by dementia, their families and caregivers to connect, share experiences and find support. The next Dementia Café will be held on Wednesday 29th January at 10am-11am.

In addition to these events, the Harrow 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.   

Esther Adams, Home Manager at Buchanan Court, 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, in addition to our monthly Dementia Cafés.  

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

To find out more about Buchanan Court, please call Customer Relations Manager Lorelei Shepherd on 020 3504 7077, or email lorelei.shepherd@careuk.com   

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. To find out more, please visit: careuk.com/bigdementiaconversation  

Buchanan Court provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable its residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own bar and hair salon, and there is plenty of space both in and outdoors for relaxation and recreation. More information can be found online at careuk.com/buchanan-court