Caring for Someone with Dementia

Caring for someone with dementia can be both a demanding and emotional role, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. While your focus will often be on the person you support, it’s essential to remember that your own health and well-being matter too.

The Importance of Self-Care

You cannot provide effective care if your own needs are constantly overlooked. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at times. Don’t feel guilty if you need to cry, take a break, or feel frustrated. These are natural human responses, and caring is not easy. No one is expected to manage perfectly all the time.

Take Regular Breaks

Try to take regular breaks, even if they are short. Spend time doing something just for you, something that brings you joy or helps you relax. This could be:

• Reading
• Walking
• A hobby
• Simply some quiet time

Connecting with Other Carers

Connecting with others who are also carers can be incredibly beneficial. Carer support groups allow you to share your experiences, talk openly with people who understand, and receive practical advice. These groups can:

• Reduce feelings of isolation
• Remind you that you’re not alone in your journey

Workplace Stress and Emotional Boundaries

If you work in a care role professionally, try not to carry the emotional weight home with you. It’s easier said than done, but even small steps can help draw a boundary between work and personal time. These steps may include:

• Speaking with a colleague
• Journaling
• Practising relaxation techniques

Learning More About Dementia

Learning more about dementia and its different forms can empower you and build confidence in your role as a carer. There may be local courses, workshops, or online training available, and this course provides resources and links in the student download area to help you get started.

What You Should Know

Dementia is a complex subject, but even basic knowledge can make a significant difference in managing care and communicating effectively with the person you support.

Support for Family Carers

If you care for someone outside of your job, such as a friend or family member, check what support you are entitled to. This might include:

• Carer’s Allowance or other financial benefits
• Support from your local council or carers’ organisations
• Help from charities offering advice, respite care, or home adaptations

Keeping Important Contacts Handy

In stressful moments, it's easy to forget important details. Keep a written list or save contact details on your phone, including:

• Your local carers’ centre or support group
• Your social worker or dementia adviser
• A trusted friend or family member you can call
• The GP, community nurse, or other health professionals
• Your local hospital or emergency contacts

Having this information readily accessible can provide reassurance and speed up support when it’s most needed.

Organisation and Support

Creating a weekly planner or noticeboard at home can help you keep track of appointments, tasks, and reminders. This way, you won’t feel overwhelmed or forget something important.

Don’t Do It Alone

Don’t try to do everything yourself. Family and friends may want to help, but sometimes they need guidance on how best to support you. Even small contributions, like doing the shopping or giving you a short break, can make a huge difference.

Treating the Person with Dementia with Dignity

Finally, always remember that the person you care for is still the same person they have always been. Dementia may change how they interact, remember, or respond, but it doesn’t change who they are at heart. Treating them with love, patience, and dignity is the most powerful form of care you can give.