Living well with dementia – Shrewsbury care home to free host advice event

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

On Thursday 23^rd January, from 2-4pm, Care UK’s Oxbow Manor, on Oteley 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 ‘Living well with dementia’ session at Oxbow Manor will be led by dementia specialist nurse Gemma Payne, who will provide insights into the benefits of meaningful activity and the home’s award-winning approach to nutrition to support people living with dementia.

In addition to the events, the Shrewsbury 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.  

Donna Howard, Home Manager at Oxbow Manor, 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.”

The home is also due to launch its very own Dementia Café next month, which will give those living with dementia and their loved ones the opportunity to share experiences over coffee and cake, take part in reminiscence activities and get advice and support. The first monthly session will be held on Thursday 20^th February from 2-4pm and they will take place on the last Thursday of each month.

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, visit careuk.com/bigdementiaconversation

Oxbow Manor is a state-of-the-art care home which provides 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 home has its very own cinema, café and hair salon, and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.