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

On Wednesday 5th February, from 5pm-6pm, Care UK’s Bishops Manor, on Jockey 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 ‘Reach out Café’ session, which is held on the first Wednesday of every month, at Bishops Manor will be led by the home’s dementia coach and lifestyle lead, Annette Jackson, and Customer Relations Manager, Jody Sedgwick, who will deliver a talk on the different aspects of the condition and the home’s holistic approach to dementia care.

The home is inviting care givers, loved ones or friends of those living with dementia to join the valuable session, which also coincides with the grand launch of the newly refurbished dementia floor at Bishops Manor. Tours of the new dementia suite will be available, and complimentary refreshments will be provided on the day.

In addition to the event, the Sutton Coldfield 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.

Thomas Bampfield, General Manager at Bishops Manor, 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.

“In line with The Big Dementia Conversation, our dementia floor has also undergone a refresh. At Bishops Manor, we understand that environmental changes are essential, and we are committed to continually adapting to provide a supportive, engaging, and familiar dementia-friendly space. We are incredibly proud of our beautiful dementia household, but even more proud of our expert team, who embody outstanding dementia care every day.

“Our commitment to excellence has been recognised with the Care Fit for VIPs award, an accolade that reflects our dedication to person-centred, high-quality dementia care that puts our residents first.”

“We’d like to encourage the local community to join us; together, we can build a more dementia-friendly Sutton Coldfield.”

For more information on Bishops Manor and to book a place at the event, please call Customer Relations Manager Jody Sedgwick, on 0121 667 3734, 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

Bishops Manor has a dedicated team offering a range of care options, including residential, dementia and nursing care. Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, the home incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities, and the building has been designed to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents. It even has its very own café, hair and beauty salon, and pub.