‘The start of a new chapter’ – Chichester care home launches new dementia guide to support families

A care home in Chichester has launched a unique video guide to support people whose loved ones have been diagnosed with dementia. 

A poll of 2,000 adults carried out by Care UK, which operates Chichester Grange, on Grosvenor Road, found over two thirds of British adults (67%) admitted they felt they should know more about dementia.  

Launched in response, the guide – One step at a time – A video guide to navigating dementia – is the first of its kind and is split into three sections: Dealing with a dementia diagnosis, Living well with dementia and Supporting the carer. It is the eighth guide to be released by Care UK, following the success of its predecessors – but the first to be available in video format. 

Tapping into more than 40 years of experience providing care for people living with dementia, the videos include detailed explanations and practical advice from Care UK’s experts, including Head of Nursing, Care and Dementia, Suzanne Mumford, Managers and team members from care homes across the country, plus residents’ families and carers. 

Each section is designed to provide a lifeline for families whose loved one has been diagnosed with dementia by dispelling common myths and helping to shine a light on what it means to live with the condition. 

It also includes practical tips from carers to help them understand how they can continue taking care of themselves, but also how their loved ones can go on to lead fulfilling lives after a diagnosis – from keeping active to continuing to enjoy old hobbies.

To celebrate the launch, on Wednesday 17^th May, 2.30pm - 4pm, Chichester Grange is inviting the local community to learn more about dementia at their Let’s Talk About Dementia event. 

Aimed at those caring for a loved one living with the condition, the session will provide valuable insight into aspects of dementia which are often not spoken about, including behaviour changes and physical changes.

The session will also discuss the types of support available for at home carers and advice for engaging with a loved one living with dementia. 

Ryan Harris, Home Manager at Chichester Grange, said: “Here at Chichester Grange, we are committed to providing support to those in the community who may be caring for a loved one living with dementia – which is why we’re excited to be unveiling our new guide, One step at a time. 

“To celebrate, we’re also inviting the community to a special event – Let’s Talk About Dementia. 

“We’re incredibly proud of our team members’ expertise when it comes to dementia care, and we hope the community will take this opportunity to join us for an inspiring session of guidance – as well as watching the contents of our guide online.” 

As part of the launch, Care UK has also teamed up with Alzheimer’s Society ambassador, award-winning journalist and TV presenter Angela Rippon. She commented “I understand the feeling that families experience when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia. It's a difficult time, and it's easy to feel powerless and alone.

“There are numerous common misconceptions about dementia, and while it may be difficult to receive a diagnosis, it’s important to remember that it can also be the start of a new chapter. 

“I believe that raising awareness about the symptoms of dementia and what it's like to live with the condition is incredibly important. I'd like to encourage everyone to explore Care UK's video guide so that we can all work together to make our society more dementia friendly.”

To find out more about Chichester Grange or book your place at the event, contact Customer Relations Manager Caroline Thomas, on 0330 058 3250 or email caroline.thomas@careuk.com  

To access the guide, please visit careuk.com/one-step-at-a-time

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives while also promoting independence, Chichester Grange, incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. Luxury facilities includes a café, hair and beauty salon, cinema and bar, and stunning gardens. The home was recently awarded the ‘Care Home Design of the Year’ at the Leaders in Care Awards 2022.