A NEW video has been produced to help relatives care for loved ones with dementia.
To mark the launch of this, Cranford Grange care home in Knutsford is hosting a Dementia Friends event today, Thursday, from 2.30pm to 4pm.
Anyone in the local community can come along to support session being organized as part of Dementia Action Week.
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A number of topics to help people understand what it is like to live with dementia will be covered.
There will also be support and practical advice from dementia specialists, including the Alzheimer’s Society, on what dementia is and how memories are lost, as well as useful tips on how to overcome communication barriers and discover positive approaches to living with the condition.
A poll of 2,000 adults carried out by Care UK, which operates Cranford Grange, found more than two thirds of adults admitted they felt they should know more about dementia.
A video guide to navigating dementia, the first of its kind was launched in response to this survey.
Three sections are included, dealing with a dementia diagnosis, living well with dementia and supporting the carer.
Tapping into more than 40 years of experience providing care for people living with dementia, the video includes detailed explanations and practical advice from care specialists, residents’ families and carers.
Each section is designed to provide a lifeline for families whose loved one has been diagnosed with dementia by dispelling common myths and helping to shine a light on what it means to live with the condition.
It also includes practical tips from carers to help them understand how they can continue taking care of themselves.
It also shows how loved ones can continue to lead fulfilling, from keeping active to continuing to enjoy old hobbies.
Lisa Burrows, general manager at Cranford Grange, said: “Thousands of people each year are diagnosed with dementia, which can feel confusing for those diagnosed as well as their loved ones – which is why we’ve created our new guide, ‘One Step At A Time’.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming local people for an inspiring afternoon of information and guidance.
“We would like to encourage those who can’t attend to watch our new video guide and get in touch if they have any questions.”
Care UK has teamed up with Alzheimer’s Society ambassador, journalist and TV presenter Angela Rippon.
Angela said: “I understand the feeling that families experience when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia.
“It's a difficult time, and it's easy to feel powerless and alone.
“There are numerous common misconceptions about dementia, and while it may be difficult to receive a diagnosis, it’s important to remember that it can also be the start of a new chapter.
“I believe that raising awareness about the symptoms of dementia and what it's like to live with the condition is incredibly important.
“I'd like to encourage everyone to explore Care UK's video guide so that we can all work together to make our society more dementia friendly.”
To access the guide, visit careuk.com/one-step-at-a-time
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