Marlowes to host dementia support day
Behind the clinical statistics of dementia are thousands of local families navigating a journey often described as ‘the long goodbye’, the heart-wrenching experience of watching the personality, memories, and spirit of a loved one gradually fade. To provide a lifeline for those facing this emotional struggle, The Marlowes Shopping Centre has announced it will host a dementia information day on Monday 18 May.
The event will take place from 10am-2pm at the Community Action Dacorum Hub, located within the heart of the centre. This initiative comes at a critical time, as many residents find themselves thrust into the role of a carer overnight, often feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and unsure of where to turn for help.
For many families, a dementia diagnosis can feel like ‘falling off a cliff edge’. The daily reality involves not just the practicalities of care, but the emotional toll of seeing a partner of fifty years forget a name, or a parent lose the ability to perform simple, everyday tasks. Charities attending the event work tirelessly to bridge this gap, replacing isolation with a community of understanding and expert practical hope.
A wide range of specialists will be in attendance to offer tailored support, including Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Advisers and Group Facilitators, who provide expert guidance on navigating the healthcare system and finding peer support groups. They will be joined by representatives from Age UK Hertfordshire, Home Instead, and Hertfordshire Mind, ensuring that families can access a holistic range of services, from practical home care and companionship to mental health support for both the individual and their carers.
Louise, Dementia Advisor in Hertfordshire at Alzheimer’s Society, highlighted the vital nature of local outreach: ‘At Alzheimer’s Society, we’re leading the way, together with the people it touches, to create a future where dementia no longer devastates lives. The Marlowes community work helps to make this personal to local people affected by dementia.’
The information day aims to offer more than just facts; it is designed to be a morning of genuine connection. Whether it is learning how a simple home adjustment from Home Instead can help someone stay independent for longer, or discovering social activities through Age UK Hertfordshire, the event is a dedicated sanctuary for the community. Experts will be on hand to discuss how specialised support can help families find ‘moments of joy’ and reconnect with their loved ones despite the progression of the condition.
By hosting this event during Dementia Action Week, The Marlowes reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that no one has to face the complexities of dementia alone. The morning is open to everyone: those living with the condition, dedicated family carers, and individuals who simply wish to become better ‘dementia friends’ to support their neighbours.
Event Summary:
- Date: Monday 18 May
- Time: 10am-2pm
- Location: Community Action Dacorum Hub, The Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 1ST
- Free to attend
For more information on the event and the centre’s ongoing community initiatives, please visit www.themarlowes.co.uk.