Let’s talk about Dementia: Cambridgeshire care home to host free advice event

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

On Thursday 20^th February, from 2-4pm, Care UK’s Field Lodge, 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 Field Lodge will be led by our Dementia Care Coach, Keri Barker, and will shine a light on some aspects of dementia not often talked about, such as why a loved one might be behaving differently and what can be done to support them. Complimentary refreshments will also be available, so that the local community can share their experiences over coffee and cake. 

In addition to the event, the Cambridgeshire 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.  

Linda Martinez, Home Manager at Field Lodge, 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 afternoon 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

Field Lodge is a modern, purpose-built care home providing full-time residential, nursing, and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has a choice of lounges and dining rooms, as well as its own activity room, cinema, and hair salon.