A care home in Southampton is inviting the local community to their free dementia advice event. Care UK’s Carpathia Grange in Hythe and The Wickets in the city centre will be holding special sessions 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 ten 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 ‘Staying Connected: a Guide to Dementia-Friendly Conversations’ sessions will take place at Carpathia Grange on Friday 6th March from 2.30pm–4pm. Led by the homes’ Customer Relations Managers, the events will explore practical ways to communicate more effectively with people living with dementia, while offering simple strategies to stay connected, reduce frustration and create more meaningful moments in everyday life. Jodie Lavers, Home Manager at Carpathia Grange, added: “While dementia may affect the way a loved one acts or talks, it doesn’t mean they can’t have meaningful interactions with others. “We’re looking forward to opening our doors to the community for an informative afternoon of guidance and practical tips and to help break down those communication barriers. We encourage those interested to book their space to avoid missing out. To find out more about the homes and to book a place at one of the events, please visit www.careuk.com/southampton.