How to spot the signs of Dementia
Five lesser-known signs of Dementia “Sensory issues are not always recognised as dementia symptoms and as a result, are not often reported as such. These sensory issues could be increased sensitivity to noise, changes to smells and also the way that food tastes which may cause a loved one to not to enjoy food they might have used to.” “You may start to notice subtle differences in how your loved one is moving, such as shuffling instead of lifting their legs when walking. Trips and falls may also become more common. Additionally, they may start to struggle with spatial awareness and depth perception which can impact how they move around their surroundings.” “Struggling to find words is another lesser-known symptom of dementia. This can look like stuttering when trying to get a sentence out, stopping a sentence mid-way through or jumbling up similar words such as saying ‘jumper’ when they mean ‘jacket’. This is known as ‘aphasia’ and can also affect names not just generic words. “Losing track of time can be an early sign of dementia that can sometimes go under the radar. A clear sign that your loved one is suffering from this symptom is that they start being late to appointments and social meetings. It can be due to memory loss or an inability to read an analogue clock anymore.” “Starting to have an issue with reading and writing, where the person hasn’t previously had a problem, is often an indicator of dementia. This could be seen through a change in handwriting in birthday cards for example.” Three common signs of Dementia “Whilst dementia isn’t just forgetfulness, it is the most common sign that someone could potentially be suffering from dementia. It can also likely be one of the first signs of dementia when your loved one potentially starts forgetting the names and faces of other family members and their friends that they previously had no issues recalling.” “Your loved ones getting lost in familiar places is a very common sign of dementia, and it’s important to pay close attention to this as it can potentially be dangerous. Examples of this can include going to the shops and not being able to get home, or not knowing the way to other people’s houses, despite walking the same routes for many years.” “Losing items around the house or forgetting where they store certain things, such as where they keep their crockery in the kitchen is a very common sign of dementia. One way you can help your loved one through this is by labelling drawers and cupboards to help them know where they keep certain items.” Michael shares: “If you start to notice any of these signs in your loved ones, try and have a conversation with them about what you have noticed and suggestbooking a doctor’s appointment to discuss the symptoms. This will help guide you and your loved one with how to move forward. “At this point, it is also a good idea to start having conversations on care options that are available and exploring alternative living arrangements. As your lovedone’s symptoms worsen and they struggle to do more and more, a residential care home may be able to give them the support and care that they require.”
Strength is so important for our later years
Orchard Manor Care Home explain why strength is so important for our later years As we age, maintaining our mobility and independence is something we all value deeply. The good news is that staying active and supporting muscle and joint strength can make a big difference in helping us—and our loved ones—stay strong and independent for years to come. Jamila Faerbe, General Manager at Orchard Manor care home, part of Danforth Care Homes, and physiotherapist, Fikri Fikriev discuss why it’s important to keep mobile, and what you can do now – at any age – to get started. Why is mobility and strength so important for our later years? “Having good mobility allows older people to retain independence for longer, meaning they can safely complete tasks such as walking, cooking, using the bathroom, and getting dressed,” says Jamila, from the care home in Surrey. “Mobility is also tied to cognitive health, as it can affect how often you leave the house, and therefore your engagement and interaction with your external environment and other people. Keeping your independence depends on your mind and your body, so it’s important to do what you can to nourish both.” says Jamila. “As we age, naturally the joints can become stiffer, and our muscles lose strength,” adds Fikri from Physiotherapy Matters. “The rate of muscle mass loss depends on age and lifestyle, but we gradually begin to lose muscle mass from around our 30s-40s. This process can pick up at 65-80 years old. The rates vary; however, it can reach as high as 8% muscle mass loss per decade. “This can have an effect on your mobility and energy levels, hence why it’s essential to have a balanced routine that helps to preserve strength and flexibility as we age,” says Fikri. “Age is just a number” “Physiotherapists and fitness instructors regularly come into our care homes to help our residents with their mobility, holding gentle exercise classes like seated yoga,” says Jamila. “This is not only fun but helps strengthen their muscles and joints. “We have residents who are nearly 100 who are out gardening or walking in the grounds nearly every day. Age is just a number – a lot of their mobility is testament to how they have looked after themselves over the course of their lives and how we support them to stay fit. “It’s worth giving your body a head-start and build the habit of keeping your core muscles and joints strong now, whatever your age is!” 4 exercises to stay mobile, strong and independent as you age “Perform the below exercises at least 3-4 times per week – consistency is key,” says Fikri. “Start nice and easy and progress gradually, and don’t forget to take regular breaks. Stay hydrated, increase protein intake in your diet with simple ingredients like eggs, and wear supportive and comfortable footwear. “Always consult your GP, physiotherapist, or personal trainer if you have chronic conditions, limited mobility, injuries or if you are unsure how to progress/regress your exercise routine.” 1. Two leg bridge “Bridge exercises and hip thrusts can improve back pain, as well as hip, hamstring, and glute strength. They also help with stretching the hip flexors that tend to get tighter with prolonged sitting,” says Fikri. “Additionally, bridge exercises can help strengthen the core and pelvic floor. This is very important, especially in women who struggle with bladder control, such as older adults, after pregnancy, or due to stress. “After the basic bridge, you can progress towards single leg bridge, or even further into hip thrusts (with or without weights). There are lots of bridge and hip thrust variations to pick from.” 2. Wall push-ups “Push-up exercises are a great way to improve posture and upper body strength, such as in your back, chest, and your core. As well as this, they help to improve heart health, lose body weight and fat, and lower blood pressure and cholesterol. “You can progress towards an incline push-up on a countertop or table, then to a higher difficulty with push-ups on the floor,” says Fikri 3. Sit to stand/squat “Sit to stand exercises, squats and lunges are important functional exercises to improve the ability to do daily activities and maintain independence. This includes sitting down or standing up, climbing stairs, and improving balance and strength in the lower body.” says Fikri. “From sitting to standing exercises, you can progress towards squats (with or without support), and then further difficulty lunges (with or without weights).” 4. Calf raises “Calf raises offer several benefits, including improved balance, increased ankle stability and mobility, and enhanced strength,” says Fikri. “They also improve lower limb blood circulation, which reduces sprains and helps prevent falls. “Moreover, calf raises increases Achilles tendon resilience which can reduce the risk of tendinopathy, which can have a negative impact on walking and running. You can then progress towards single calf raises, and into jumping calf raises (plyometric). All can be done with or without additional weights.”
Babies ‘bring joy’ to care home residents
A Durham care home has partnered with local baby development class, Lullababy Durham, to host monthly sessions with babies for its residents. Intergenerational activities bring together younger and older generations to create meaningful experiences that benefit all involved. The DurhamGate Care Home hosts regular baby and toddler sessions designed to bring generations together through music, movement, and shared experiences. Providing care, community, and connection, the initiative Lullababy Durham, led by Cheryl Armstrong, delivers interactive sessions that encourage residents to get involved, waving ribbons, singing along and dancing with the little ones. With a huge impact on both older people and young families, Lisa Tones, Care Manager at The DurhamGate Care Home, explains four benefits of intergenerational activities: Boosts mental and emotional wellbeing “Intergenerational activities often spark conversations, unlock memories, and create connection. For older adults, these activities can improve mental and emotional wellbeing by boosting their mood and keeping their minds active. It’s incredibly heartwarming to see how our residents light up during these sessions. The feedback from these sessions has been fantastic, which is why we’ve made them a regular event so that the positive impact is long-lasting, not just a one-off.” Promotes meaningful learning and interaction “What’s particularly special about these visits is the mutual exchange of experiences and skills. While the babies benefit from sensory play and new stimuli, older people enjoy meaningful interactions that remind them of their own parenting days. They also get the chance to share advice and stories with the parents, creating a three-way learning experience. Intergenerational sessions like this aren’t just heartwarming, they’re a powerful way to pass on knowledge across generations.” Connecting with the community “Connection is key, especially later in life. Intergenerational activities provide a great opportunity to socialise with others outside of their own age group, helping older adults feel valued and connected to the wider community. For some of our residents, especially those whose families live further away and aren’t able to visit regularly, it’s like a second family. The visits from the babies and parents bring so much happiness to the residents and have led to lifelong bonds.” Encourages physical activity “As we get older, mobility can become more limited and staying active can become more challenging, so incorporating movement into fun activities is a great way to support physical wellbeing. Activities such as dancing, light movement, and games can be adapted so everyone can take part, regardless of age or ability. It’s a fun and inclusive way to keep moving, and many of our residents don’t even realise they’re exercising.” Cheryl Armstrong, Class Leader at Lullababy Durham comments, “I started this class to connect generations. The residents don’t always have family nearby, so this gives them a chance to see and interact with babies each week. It’s gentle exercise and emotional connection all rolled into one.” The classes also offer support for new parents, who describe the care home in Durham as a warm, welcoming space. The mums always comment on how lovely the home is,” Cheryl adds. “It’s become a real community. Residents and parents now know each other by name. It’s magic.” Resident at The DurhamGate Care Home, Mike Holmes, added, “My late wife and I fostered many children and babies, and it brings me so much joy to still get to spend time with youngsters. It really brightens my day.” Intergenerational activities are a key part of life at The DurhamGate Care Home. Alongside the regular Lullababy sessions, the care home has also recently welcomed pupils from King Street Primary School to spend time with residents.
Castleford care home enhances support for military veterans
HC-One’s Newfield Lodge Care Home in Castleford, West Yorkshire, has enhanced its support for military veterans following it’s the home’s official recognition as a Veteran Friendly Care Home. Becoming the first HC-One home to achieve this prestigious status under the Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF), former members of the Armed Forces in Castleford will benefit from enhanced person-centred care and support after the care home they live in achieved the standards required for the VFF. The aim of the VFF is to better support the practical, emotional and social needs of the Armed Forces community, in residential care homes across England, by providing training and resources to assess and improve the care they offer. Working to tackle loneliness and deliver improved health and wellbeing outcomes for the 25,000 veterans living in care homes across England, Newfield Lodge Care Home was required to meet eight standards that addressed the unique challenges facing the current generation of veterans in care. These included: noting Armed Forces status within care plans; addressing social isolation; and signposting to support services, such as their local Royal British Legion branch, and other charities that provide support for veterans or partners of veterans. Karen Hughes, HC-One’s Newfield Lodge Care Home Manager, said: “We know that veterans can face unique challenges when entering into adult social care and we have worked hard to ensure that our home is a welcoming and supportive environment for the entire community. We’re incredibly proud to be recognised as a Veteran Friendly Care Home. This achievement is a testament to the dedicated work and compassion of our team, who go above and beyond to ensure that every resident receives the respect, dignity, and support they deserve.” Kathryn Glass, the VFF Project Lead at Royal Star & Garter and responsible for supporting and assessing care homes going through the scheme. She said: “We’re delighted that HC-One’s Newfield Lodge Care Home has achieved VFF status. This is a great commitment to their continuous improvement in the delivery of person-centred care for military veterans as residents and their partners. “This programme will benefit both current and future residents, along with current and future staff at Newfield Lodge, who are able to access enhanced training and guidance to better engage with the unique military experiences that their residents and partners have lived through. “Being a VFF care home means that there is an increased understanding and recognition for the veteran community at Newfield Lodge.” For more information about Newfield Lodge Care Home and upcoming events, please contact the friendly team on 01977 524 267, or email newfield.lodge@hc-one.co.uk. Newfield Lodge is a residential and residential dementia care home located on Brookfield Avenue in Castleford, West Yorkshire and rated 9.8/10 on the care home review site, Carehome.co.uk. With 64 en-suite bedrooms and attractive décor, Newfield Lodge is proud to offer person-centred care in a dignified manner, promoting independence as far as possible.
HETT 2025
Health tech communications experts join forces with HETT 2025 to champion progress and innovation Highland Marketing has been named, for the second year running, the official communications partner for HETT Show 2025, the UK’s leading digital health conference and exhibition. Taking place 7–8 October 2025 at ExCeL London, HETT will welcome thousands of healthcare professionals, policy makers, and technology leaders for two days of insights, collaboration, and sector-shaping conversations. As a specialist health tech PR, marketing, and communications agency, Highland Marketing will bring its deep industry expertise to the event, supporting content development, speaker engagement, and media relations to amplify the voices of the people shaping the future of health and care. This collaboration supports HETT’s mission to unite the health and care community and accelerate digital innovation across the sector. This year’s HETT show will spotlight emerging trends and real-world digital innovation with highlights including: In addition to these dedicated zones, HETT 2025 will offer thought-provoking roundtable discussions, hands-on workshops in the HETT Workshops and Insights Zone, and curated networking opportunities – including a VIP drinks reception and informal end-of-day meetups. Cyber security will also take centre stage, with the launch of HETT’s new Cyber Security Working Group. This programme will deliver expert-led content designed to help healthcare organisations build long-term resilience and respond to evolving digital threats. Finally, a fan favourite returns the night before the show: the “Rockaoke” charity event on 6 October – combining live band karaoke and fundraising for The Brain Tumour Charity, it’s set to be a feel-good kick-off to an unmissable week of digital health. Rikki Bhachu, head of marketing, HETT said: “HETT is built on collaboration, and we’re pleased to be once again working with a communications partner that understands the health tech landscape. With so many important voices and innovations coming together at this year’s show, we’re focused on creating the space – and the momentum – for those conversations to have a lasting impact.” Highland Marketing will help ensure the ideas, breakthroughs, and people at the heart of HETT 2025 don’t just reach the room – but resonate far beyond it. Mark Venables, CEO, Highland Marketing said: “We’re proud that Highland Marketing has been named official communications partner for HETT London 2025. As a specialist agency dedicated to the health and care sector, we’re pleased to be returning for a second successive year to support a platform that consistently champions innovation and sparks meaningful progress in health tech. Our role is to ensure the sector’s most exciting ideas, initiatives, and innovators are not only heard at HETT, but recognised and remembered beyond it.” The agency’s team – supported by an advisory board of respected NHS digital leaders including CIOs, CCIOs, and CNIOs – will also be on-site for one-to-one sessions with companies seeking effective strategies for health tech marketing, communications, and market positioning. To explore these opportunities, contact the Highland Marketing team or you can register here:https://hubs.la/Q03kQpPY0
Bungee jump to raise over £1,000 for SHINE Fund
Two care workers from Hull-based HICA Homecare have raised more than £1,000 for the organisation’s SHINE Fund by completing a sponsored tandem bungee jump at Salford Quays. Carole Leach, Care Supervisor, and Sharon Foster, Care Coordinator, took the plunge despite Sharon having a fear of heights. The SHINE Fund helps to create life-enhancing experiences for people supported by the HICA Group, a not-for-profit organisation which operates care homes and community-based care services across the North of England, including HICA Homecare in Hull. Steph Smith, manager at Hull Homecare, said: “I’m so proud of Carole and Sharon, not just for going through with the jump, but for the effort they’ve made to raise money for a cause that benefits so many of the people we care for. They’re a fantastic example of the dedication we see every day in our team.” The pair took on the challenge to raise funds for the SHINE initiative, which provides extras that fall outside of core care funding such as day trips, special events or personalised items that bring joy to service users. Sharon said: “It was a terrifying but amazing experience and knowing we were doing it for such a worthwhile cause helped get us through it. The support from colleagues, friends, and families has been overwhelming.” Carole added: “I’m still in shock that we did it! But the best part is knowing the money raised will go straight back into helping people we support enjoy meaningful experiences and moments.” The JustGiving page set up by Carole and Sharon remains open for anyone who still wants to donate: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/carole-leach?utm_term=VZvZyA8Qa
How to look after yourself as a sandwich carer
Dementia UK’s new podcast shares advice from specialist Admiral Nurses on how to look after yourself as a sandwich carer 6th June 2025 – Over 1.3 million people in the UK are sandwich carers – meaning they care for both their parent or elderly relative and a child1. With one in two of us affected by dementia in our lifetime2, it’s vital that sandwich carers understand the support that is there for them to help them through the challenges they may face while supporting anyone who is dependent on them. The latest series of Dementia UK’s ‘My life with dementia’ podcast features an interview with Chris Saunders. In the episode, “Caring for Mum and Dad drove me to breaking point”, Chris shares the emotional impact of caring for both his parents who were living with dementia, juggling parenting his own son, and working full-time in the emergency services. Podcast guest Chris Saunders said:“ I’m an only child and we have very little extended family, so my wife and I assumed a caring role without any real discussion. I was working full-time in emergency services, while my wife juggled two jobs of her own. We also had a six-year-old son. To say it was a big adjustment is an understatement. “I had reached breaking point. I was so exhausted, emotionally and mentally, but the support we received from our Admiral Nurse changed our lives, I don’t know what we would have done without her.” Dr Hilda Hayo, CEO and Chief Admiral Nurse at Dementia UK said: “If you are caring for a parent or grandparent with dementia and looking after children too, it can be a stressful and socially isolating time. “Juggling these dual caring responsibilities along with work, finances, the home and wider family life can be very challenging. You may prioritise the needs of others over your own which can take a toll on your overall health and wellbeing. It’s vital that carers take time for themselves.” Tips for looking after yourself as a sandwich carer Dementia UK’s new podcast, ‘My life with dementia’ is presented by charity ambassador and award-winning journalist and podcaster, Marianne Jones. The podcast brings together real-life stories of people impacted by dementia alongside practical advice from the charity’s Admiral Nurses. For more first-person stories and advice from dementia specialist Admiral Nurses, subscribe to ‘My life with dementia’ on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts to listen to new episodes as soon as they come out. You can find out more about the podcast on the Dementia UK website: dementiauk.org/dementia-podcast/ If you need information or advice on being a sandwich carer visit https://www.dementiauk.org/information-and-support/looking-after-yourself-as-a-carer/what-is-a-sandwich-carer/. You can also contact Dementia UK’s Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline for further support on 0800 888 6678 or email helpline@dementiauk.org
Care Home Hosts Annual Super-Paw Dog Show
Friends of the Elderly’s Alton Residential Care Home Hosts Annual Super-Paw Dog Show For The Third Year To celebrate this year’s Care Home Open Week, The Lawn, the Alton-based residential care home run by charity, Friends of the Elderly, which is celebrating its 120th Anniversary this year, is ‘em-barking’ on the preparations for the care home’s third annual community Dog Show, which is affectionately known as ‘The Scruffies’. “Both the 2023 and 2024 ‘Scruffies’ were such ‘pawsome’ community events, the inclusive, accessible and fun day is now a ‘fur-m’ fixture on our events calendar,” said Catalina Constantin, The Lawn’s Activities Coordinator. “Each year, the residents love getting involved with the preparations and making the rosettes and doggy treat bags. The residents not only love dogs, but all animals and frequently reminisce and talk about pets they have had and loved as children or with their own children. Between them, there have been cats, birds, rabbits – and of course dogs, it’s quite a list any zoo would be proud of.” The 2025 ‘Scruffies’ will take place at The Lawn Residential Care Home at 119 London Road, Holybourne, Alton, GU34 4ER on Friday 20th June 2025 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. “Each year, the residents have a wonderful time at ‘The Scruffies’, interacting with the ‘’tail-ented’ dogs, their owners and our local community,” continued Steve Swift, the Registered Manager at The Lawn. “It’s a great event for the residents and also supports and reinforces our ongoing commitment to, and our strong links with, our local community.” “For the 2025 ‘Scruffies’, we have 11 award categories,” continued Catalina. “The categories will be Most Handsome Dog, Prettiest Lady Dog, Best Rescue Dog, Best Junior Handler, The Waggiest Tail, The Best Behaved Dog, The Scruffiest Dog, The Dog Most Like Its Owner, The Winner of The Sausage Eating Race and, finally, The Dog The Judges Would Like To Take Home; with the final, prestigious award going to Best in Show.” “We will set The Show Ring up on the lawn outside the care home’s dining area, giving everyone a good view and the opportunity to see the ‘claw-ver’ dogs ‘un-leash’ their ‘paw-tential,” added Steve. The Entry Fee will be only £5 per dog for as many categories as you’d like to enter. The Lawn’s residents will act as Judges for the event and handmade rosettes will be awarded to the top three winners in each class. In addition, the winners of the Best Behaved, Best Trick, Best Rescue Dog and Best in Show categories will win a £20 gift voucher. However, no pup will leave with empty paws, as each dog who enters will be given a doggie bag of tasty doggie treats which the residents will also make for them. “All the money we raise from the 2025 ‘Scruffies’ will go into the Resident’s Activity Fund,” said Catalina. In addition to all the canine fun, Steve and the care team will be on hand to give any visitors tours of The Lawn. “From 2 p.m. on 20th June, we will also be able to take visitors on tours of the care home. Hosting ‘The Scruffies’ is the perfect opportunity for visitors to see the care home – both inside and out – and see the dedicated care team in action as they deliver individualised, person-centred care to each resident and respite guest,” continued Steve. There will also be ‘fur-bulous’ ‘whining and dining’ for visitors and all the dogs’ humans to enjoy too, as The Lawn will be offering tasty afternoon teas for only £5 per person. Hot and cold beverages will also be available to purchase. If you would like to enter your dog into any – or all – of the 2025 ‘Scruffies’ categories, please email Catalina on: catalina.constantin@fote.org.uk or give her a call on telephone number 01420 84162. “We look forward to welcoming as many dogs, their owners and visitors as ‘paw-sible’, to make our 2025 ‘Scruffies’ bigger and ‘bark-ier’ than last year – and really hope everyone will raise the ‘woof’. Knowing how much the residents love animals, they are ‘def-fur-nately’ looking forward to it,” concluded Steve. www.fote.org.uk
Hermitage House Achieves Outstanding 10/10 Rating
Morar Living, a leading provider of premium residential care, has announced that Hermitage House in Helensburgh has received a perfect 10 out of 10 rating on carehome.co.uk, the UK’s leading care home review site. Of the 764 care homes for retired people in Scotland, only 25 have a rating of 10/10. Hermitage House is one of Morar Living’s flagship residences, offering luxurious, person-centred care in a modern, purpose-built setting, near the centre of Helensburgh on the Clyde Estuary. With beautifully designed interiors, landscaped gardens and a full range of care services, the home provides a valued service for people in and around Helensburgh. The 10/10 rating on carehome.co.uk is based on reviews from residents and their families who consistently praise the home’s warm atmosphere, exceptional care standards and strong sense of community. Elaine Rankin, Managing Director of Morar Living, commented: “We are incredibly proud of the entire team at Hermitage House. This exceptional achievement is testament to the hard work, empathy and professionalism of manager Lynn Cumming and her team. “At Morar Living, we are passionate about creating an environment where residents feel truly at home, and Hermitage House exemplifies this mission every single day.” Hermitage House continues to welcome new residents and families looking for outstanding care in a luxurious and comfortable environment where each individual is supported to live life to the full. To find out more about Morar Living visit https://moraruk.co/
