Dementia or simply old age? New Wilmslow care home to host free advice event alongside opening of new marketing suite

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

On Thursday 23^rd January, from 2pm-4pm, Care UK’s Long Stone Manor, is inviting members of the community for a special event at The Stanneylands on Stanneylands Road, SK9 4EY, 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 will be led by dementia care coach, Terri Cashman, who will discuss typical signs of ageing and how symptoms differ from dementia. Terri will also share guidance on how to live well with dementia. Complimentary refreshments will be available.

On Thursday 27^th February, Long Stone Manor will be hosting a second event at their home on Manchester Road, with dementia expert, Sue Ashcroft. In this session, Sue will explore how the brain changes during advanced dementia and will discuss ways to support loved ones as they experience shifting physical and emotional needs and behaviours.

In addition to the events, the Wilmslow 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.  

Ahead of its opening in March, the home’s marketing suite will be open from 28^th January for the community to tour Long Stone Manor and find out what life is like at a Care UK home. 

Emma Tillyer, Home Manager at Long Stone Manor, said: “Most people will be affected by dementia in their lifetime – whether it’s through a loved one’s diagnosis or their own.

“We know just how much of a difference expert guidance can make, which is why we’re looking forward to welcoming Terri and Sue to our home for the Big Dementia Conversation. Both of our experts will provide guidance for carers while offering insight into what it’s like to live with the condition. 

“We’d like to encourage those interested to book their space to avoid missing out on the event, and also to tour the new home ahead of its opening.”

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, the new Care UK home, Long Stone Manor, will incorporate plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities. The layout of the building will be configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities. Long Stone Manor will also come complete with a café, cinema and hair salon, providing care for up to 60 people.