On Friday 7th February, from 2-4pm, Care UK’s Abney Court, in Abney Hall Park, 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 ‘Typical signs of ageing or dementia?’ session at Abney Court will be led by team member Sofia Ahmed and will provide insights into the classic signs of ageing and how symptoms differ from dementia. Advice on how to support a loved one with their changing physical and emotional needs will also be available, along with tips on living well with dementia, and complimentary refreshments will be provided.

In addition to the event, the Cheadle 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. 

Visitors can also learn more about the home’s newly refurbished dementia suite, which was completed this month and offers a state-of-the-art specialist annex for those living with the condition.

Zoe Smart, Home Manager at Abney 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. We are also proud to introduce our newly refurbished dementia suite, which is looking fantastic.

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

To find out more about Abney Court, or to book a place at the event, contact Customer Relations Manager Erminia Anglesea on 0161 660 5713, or email erminia.anglesea@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, visit careuk.com/bigdementiaconversation

Abney Court has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The 80-bed care home provides residential and specialist care for people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, as well as short-term respite care. The care home incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.

More information can be found at careuk.com/abney-court