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

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

On Monday 3^rd February from 5-7pm, Care UK’s Manor Lodge, on Manor Road, 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 Manor Lodge will be led by Dementia Champion, Cristiana Albino, and will provide information about typical signs of ageing and how symptoms differ from dementia, as well as guidance on how to live well with dementia. Complementary refreshments will also be provided.

In addition to the event, the Chelmsford 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.  

Maggie Ziemianska, Home Manager at Manor Lodge, said: “Since we first opened the doors to our care home, we’ve been committed to making Chelmsford a more dementia-friendly place.

“We understand it can be overwhelming, especially when a loved one is first diagnosed, but we’re here to help. That’s why we’re taking part in the Big Dementia Conversation; we want to give people the tools they need to support a loved one with the condition. 

“We are looking forward to welcoming local people to our event and helping to build a community-wide support network.”

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

Manor Lodge, rated ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), is a modern care home that provides full-time residential, dementia nursing and short-term respite care. Designed to enable its residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own cinema and hair salon, and there is plenty of space both indoors and out for relaxation and recreation.