Free seminar to help Faversham residents caring for people with dementia

Company news

Jul 16, 2013

People caring for loved ones with dementia are being invited to a free seminar at Care UK’s Kingsfield care home, in Faversham, where dementia experts will give advice on the condition which affects one in six people over the age of 80 nationwide.

On Saturday 27th July dementia expert James Wilson, who lectures in Mental Health at Southampton University and specialises in the effects of dementia, will lead the seminar at the home in Jubilee Way.

Mr Wilson said: “‘If only I had known that at the start of my journey” is the most common statement I hear from carers who have described their journey of care as “slowly fumbling your way along an obstacle-filled path while blindfolded, frustrated and alone.”

“It can be difficult to navigate your way through the unusual and new complexities that are thrown up when dementia enters your life uninvited. I warmly invite you to come to this seminar and meet others in the same position as you.”

There will also be a talk from Rose Elliot, Care UK’s dementia specialist nurse, about any specific concerns people have for their loved ones, and one-to-one sessions will be available.
Kingsfield Manager Allison Purkiss said: “We hope the seminar will provide an understanding of what dementia is, as well as giving some really useful information on how to help people with dementia live a calm and fulfilled life.
“Caring for someone with dementia can be particularly difficult for a friend or relative as they have no training and do not know what to expect. They also have emotional ties to the person and this can make things more troubling for them. We hope that this day will show people that they are not alone and there is help and a way forward.”

Places for the seminar, which will run from 11am to 3pm, are free but availability is limited. Anyone interested in taking part in the session at Kingsfield should contact Allison on 01795 334 075 or via email: admin.kingsfield@careuk.com.

Visitors will also have a chance to pick up a free copy of the Care UK book As Easy AS ABC – a guide to fun activities which increase the wellbeing of people with dementia. For those who cannot attend the seminar the book can be downloaded at www.careuk.com