On Tuesday 11th February, from 2pm-4pm, Care UK’s Sherwood Grange, on Robin Hood Lane, 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 ‘Let’s Talk About Dementia’ session at Sherwood Grange will be led by team member Paul Boyce and will shine a light on some aspects of dementia that are often overlooked, as well as why a loved one might be behaving differently and how to support someone living with the condition. Complimentary refreshments will also be available.

In addition to the event, the Kingston Vale 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.   

Malgo Wcislo, Home Manager at Sherwood Grange, 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 Kingston Vale.” 

To find out more about Sherwood Grange, please contact Customer Relations Manager Paul Boyce by emailing paul.boyce@careuk.com, or calling 020 4502 8956.  

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  

Sherwood Grange has been designed to encourage residents to live active and fulfilling lives, while remaining as independent as possible in a safe environment. The ‘state-of-the-art care home features a cinema, hair salon and art studio, and incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities. The layout of the building is configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room, to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities. More information about the home can be found at  careuk.com/sherwood-grange