Windsor care homes to host free advice event

As part of a nationwide initiative, two care homes in Windsor are inviting local people to free dementia advice events.

On Wednesday 22^nd January, from 2-4pm, Care UK’s Mountbatten Grange, on Helston 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 ‘Adjusting to a diagnosis of dementia’ session at Mountbatten Grange will be led by dementia expert Barbara Stephens, CEO of Dementia Pathfinders, and will provide insights into how people’s journey with dementia might unfold following a diagnosis. It will also offer advice on how to live positively with dementia, while making emotional and practical adjustments along the way. 

Meanwhile, on Wednesday 29^th January, Care UK’s Queen’s Court, on Dedworth Road, will be hosting a ‘Let’s talk about dementia’ session from 6-7.30pm. The talk will shine a light on some aspects of dementia that are not often spoken about, why a loved one might be behaving differently and what you can do to support them.

Complimentary refreshments will be available at both events.

In addition to the events, the Windsor 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.  

Debbie Winwood, Home Manager at Mountbatten Grange, 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.”

Bozena Szczepaniak, Home Manager at Queen’s Court, added: “We’d like to encourage the local community to join us; together, we can build a more dementia-friendly Windsor.”

Mountbatten Grange and Queen’s Court are care homes that provide residential, nursing and short-term respite care. The homes feature en-suite bedrooms and enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives while also promoting independence.