Dementia or simply old age? Chingford care home to host free advice event

As part of a nationwide initiative, a care home in Chingford is inviting local people to its free dementia advice event.

On Thursday 27^th February, from 6pm-7pm, Care UK’s Ivy Grove, on Hatch 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 ‘Typical signs of aging or dementia?’ advice session at Ivy Grove will be led by dementia expert, Pierce Gallagher, and will shine a light on the typical signs of aging and how they differ from dementia, with guidance on how to live well with the condition. 

Guests will also be offered complimentary refreshments, including freshly baked cakes from Ivy Grove’s head chef, Alex Pitu. 

In addition to the event, the Chingford 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.

Jacob Mante, General Manager at Ivy Grove, 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 evening of information and guidance, and we’d encourage those interested to book their space to avoid missing out.” 

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

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Ivy Grove provides residential, dementia and respite care, and incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities. The welcoming home has been configured to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among residents, with its very own café, hair and beauty salon and garden.