On Wednesday 29th January, from 2pm-3.30pm, Care UK’s Winchcombe Place, on Maple Crescent, is inviting members of the community for 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 Winchcombe Place will be led by team member Vicki Lambourne and will provide insights into how the brain changes during the advanced stages of 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.

In addition to the event, the Newbury 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. 

Claire Cullen, Home Manager at Winchcombe Place, said: “Awareness around dementia has come on leaps and bounds in recent years, and yet some hard-to-dispel myths remain.

“While there’s no cure for dementia, there are ways to prevent and manage some of the symptoms, which can in turn enable people to lead fulfilling lives after a diagnosis. That’s why we’re excited to be opening our doors to the community as part of this year’s Big Dementia Conversation.

“We are looking forward to welcoming local people for what promises to be an interesting afternoon of information and guidance, and we’d encourage those interested to book their space to avoid missing out.”

Winchcombe Place is designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The homes offer a range of services including residential, nursing, dementia and short-term respite care, and has its own cinema, hair and beauty salon and café.

For more information about Winchcombe Place and to book a place at the event, contact Customer Relations Manager Vicki Lambourne on 01635 783 098, email vicki.lambourne@careuk.com or visit www.careuk.com/winchcombe-place

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