Lost for words? Leatherhead care home to host dementia advice event

On Tuesday 10th March from 3pm, Care UK’s Liberham Lodge in Little Bookham will be holding a special session as part of The Big Dementia Conversation – a nationwide initiative designed to show people how to better understand common symptoms and how it is possible to live well with the condition.

While awareness of dementia has improved, survey data from Care UK reveals families still face challenges when it comes to communicating with loved ones. Nearly four in 10 people (39%) said they avoid visiting relatives with dementia because of how difficult it can be, and nearly all of those polled (93%) feel communication barriers prevent meaningful interaction.

To help address these challenges, Care UK has launched The Big Dementia Conversation for the third year running, encouraging practical support and greater understanding for families and communities.

The ‘Let's Talk About Dementia’ session at Liberham Lodge, on Rectory Lane, will be led by in-house dementia specialist Heidi Twomey.

The event will shine a light on aspects of the condition not often talked about and offer visitors the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of why a loved one might be behaving differently and how to support them. There will also be the opportunity to meet others in a similar position and share experiences.

Jagpal Singh, Home Manager at Liberham Lodge, said: “When dementia progresses and a relative begins to experience increasing cognitive impairment, it can be challenging for families and friends to know what to do or say.

“Many people find it difficult to communicate effectively with a loved one living with dementia or to connect sensitively when a family member becomes confused or disoriented. We want to change this, which is why we’re delighted to be taking part in The Big Dementia Conversation again by hosting our own free advice event.

“We encourage the local community to join us so that together we can build a more dementia-friendly Leatherhead.”

In addition to the event, the Leatherhead community can explore a newly launched online advice hub, which features in-depth conversations with families of people living with dementia alongside expert advice from Care UK’s specialists.

They can also obtain a free guide packed with practical tips to help relatives overcome communication barriers and interact more easily and confidently with loved ones living with dementia. To find out more, please visit careuk.com/bigdementiaconversation.

Designed to enable residents to lead active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Liberham Lodge incorporates plenty of space for hobbies and leisure activities. The layout of the home has been configured to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents.

For further information about Liberham Lodge or to book a place at the event, please contact Customer Relations Manager Georgie Wilkins on 01372 887 982, email [email protected]or visit careuk.com/liberham-lodge.