With Dementia Action Week fast approaching, Home Instead Central Hampshire, a local home care company, is preparing a host of events to raise awareness of dementia and strengthen the local community's response to the disease.

The company provides intensive dementia training, including a City & Guilds accredited course, and specialises in dementia care for elderly people in their own homes.

Alongside Home Instead, various Central Hampshire organisations are planning week-long events to raise dementia awareness and offer support to those with the condition.

Scheduled activities include an information drop-in at The Arc on May 13, a memory tour at Winchester Cathedral (with future dates available as current slots are filled), and an afternoon tea at Winchester Heights Care Home and a ‘Welcome to Wednesday’ session at Winchester Baptist Church, both on May 15.

The weekend will also be active with a community breakfast, followed by a dementia-friendly church service on May 18 and 19, respectively, at Winchester Baptist Church. Information tables will be set up throughout the week at Winchester City Council and Winchester Sport and Leisure Park.

Home Instead will be collecting donations for Dementia Friendly Hampshire during Dementia Action Week, aiming to aid the charity’s ongoing efforts to improve the lives of those living with dementia and their carers.

Jan Gapper, director of Home Instead Central Hampshire said: "Dementia Action Week provides a crucial opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of dementia, a condition affecting millions of individuals and families worldwide.

"With the number of people living with dementia expected to rise significantly in the coming years, it is imperative that we create environments that are inclusive and supportive."

The company has also arranged a comprehensive programme of free events designed to engage community members. These include three information days at different venues focusing on care and support in the community; several musical events designed for individuals living with dementia; a unique screening of "Back to the Future Part II" specifically tailored for people with the condition; an immersive dementia bus experience; and a community picnic open to all.

For further assistance and information on Home Instead's home care services, including specialist dementia assistance, the company can be contacted at 01962736681 or online at https://www.homeinstead.co.uk/central-hampshire/.