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

On Wednesday 12th February, from 10.30pm-12.30pm, Care UK’s Jubilee House, on Pound Lane, 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 Jubilee House will be led by Customer Relations Manager, Paul Boyce and Home Manager, Nealsen Veerasawmy and they will shine a light on some aspects of dementia that are often overlooked, as well as why a loved one might be behaving differently and how to support people living with the condition. Complimentary refreshments will also be provided.

In addition to the event, the Godalming 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.

Nealsen Veerasawmy, Home Manager at Jubilee House, 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 Godalming.”

To find out more about Jubilee House, or book a space at the free event, please call Customer Relations Manager Paul Boyce, on 0333 4343 045, or email [email protected]

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

Rated ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC, has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care, to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home provides full-time residential care, nursing care, dementia care and respite care and offers plenty of space, both indoors and out, for relaxation and recreation. More information can be found at careuk.com/jubilee-house