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

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

On Wednesday 5^th February from 10am-12pm, Care UK’s Knebworth, on London 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 ‘Let’s Talk About Dementia’ session at Knebworth will be led by Dementia Champion, Liberty Richards, and will shine a light on some aspects of dementia not often talked about, including why a loved one might be behaving differently and what can be done to support them. Complimentary refreshments will also be available. 

In addition to the event, the Knebworth 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.  

Daniel Grab, Home Manager at Knebworth, 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’d like to encourage the local community to join us; together, we can build a more dementia-friendly Hertfordshire.”

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

Knebworth is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia and short-term respite care. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own hair salon and café.