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

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

On Wednesday 29^th January, from 2-4pm, Care UK’s Cavell Court, on Dragonfly Lane, is inviting members of the community for 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 Sings of Ageing or Dementia?’ session at Cavell Court will be led by dementia expert Carl George, Approach to Care Lead, who will share insights on the typical signs of ageing and how symptoms differ from dementia. He will also be on hand to give guidance on how to live well with dementia, and complimentary refreshments will be available during the session.

In addition to the event, the Norwich 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.  

Karen Curle, Home Manager at Cavell Court, 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 Norwich.”

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

Cavell Court is a modern care home which provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own cinema and hairdressers, and there is plenty of space both indoors and out for relaxation and recreation.