Dementia Support

Dementia is a complex condition that affects millions of people around the world and touches the lives of those diagnosed and their families and friends.

“As of 2022, 4,164 people aged 65+ were diagnosed with Dementia in Buckinghamshire” and the cases are rising. The number of dementia cases across the UK could be as much as 42% higher by 2040 than previously estimated, meaning that more people and their families will be in need of comprehensive support systems.

Understanding dementia involves more than just recognising its medical symptoms. It requires a holistic approach that encompasses practical, emotional and social aspects of care. We explore the various types of support available as well as ways that family members can help their loved ones to guide them through this difficult journey.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is the umbrella term used to describe a variety of symptoms that contribute to conditions such as Alzheimer's, causing abnormal brain changes and leading to cognitive impairment. These symptoms are severe enough to impact daily life and the sufferer's ability to function independently, and will often also impact mood, personality and relationships.

The most common symptoms that could indicate Dementia include:

Issues with memory such as forgetting familiar people’s names or faces or forgetting where they are
Difficulty with planning and organisation for outings or activities
Increased level of confusion in familiar environments
Asking a lot of the same questions repetitively
Difficulty with talking and finding the right words
Challenges with handling money or dealing with numbers
Increased anxiety, irritability or becoming more withdrawn

As time goes on, these symptoms will worsen and become more difficult to manage for both the person and their families and it is important to understand how best to support them.

How can you support someone with Dementia?

Many people find that in the early stages of their diagnosis, they can continue living their lives in much the same way they did before their diagnosis. However, as their symptoms worsen over time, it will become increasingly difficult to function without additional support.

It is important to try and help your loved one enjoy as many of the activities they love as possible and for them to maintain a sense of independence, even if it is aided by the support of their family and friends.

Help with everyday tasks

Offer assistance with everyday tasks such as shopping, gardening and cooking. This way you can ensure that the person is eating a balanced diet and that household chores are being kept on top of.

Emotional support

It is important to understand that your loved one may be confused a lot of the time and that behaviour changes and mood swings are normal and often come from a place of frustration and anxiety. Try not to become annoyed when they repeatedly ask questions and use humour where appropriate to lighten the mood and avoid embarrassing your loved one. Focus on short-term pleasure and live in the present moment with them, concentrating on the positive moments. Remember that even in the later stages of Dementia, people still feel emotional connections to people, places and memories.

Dementia-friendly home

There are several ways to keep your loved one’s home easier to navigate. Memory aids are a great way to give the person independence so that they don’t have to continuously ask where things are. This could include putting labels on cupboards or having a calendar on the fridge to remind them of the plans for each day.

Ensure that the space they live in is clear of trip hazards and make sure there aren’t too many objects around that may confuse them. It is also advised that you avoid having bold patterns in the home as these can lead to disorientation.

Mirrors can also be distressing for someone living with Dementia if they are starting to lose the ability to recognise themselves, so it is recommended to cover up or remove any large mirrors in the home to avoid any unnecessary upset.

What help is available for Dementia patients?

As time passes, and symptoms worsen, you may start to feel that you need some professional support for your loved one. There are a variety of options available to support them and to give caregivers some much-needed respite;

Day Centres

Day centres are a great way for Dementia patients to socialise with others in a safe, secure environment, supported by fully-trained, experienced staff. They provide the opportunity to take part in activities with people on a similar journey. Activities often include:

Arts and crafts

Singing

Outings and trips

Bingo

Board games

Bowls

Knitting and sewing

Baking

Day centres give Dementia patients a sense of purpose and can be a reminder of the things they always enjoyed before their diagnosis.

Admiral Nurses

Admiral Nurses are registered nurses who specialise in Dementia care and aim to support people, offer advice and give emotional support where it is needed. They also help with many of the practical challenges faced by Dementia patients such as supporting transitions in care and managing the frailty of a person. Admiral Nurses understand the complexities that come with a diagnosis of Dementia and are there to support patients and their families in any way they can.

They work in a variety of settings including:

In the patient's home

Care homes

Hospitals

Via helplines

Hospices

Admiral Nurse clinics

Care Homes

Many people with Dementia will reach a stage where they need to move into a care home. This is an understandably challenging time for the sufferer and their families and is a difficult decision to make. However, you will be fully supported by the care home and will remain hugely significant in the care and support of your loved one.

A needs assessment will have to be carried out by your local council to confirm the need to go into a care home. A financial assessment will also be carried out to establish if they are eligible for any support with paying the fees.

Do you need Dementia support for your loved one?

The Princes Centre is an award-winning, community-run day care centre based in Buckinghamshire.

Our fully-trained staff are passionate about caring for and supporting our clients and offer a wide range of activities and outings for people living with Dementia.

If you would like more information about our services, please contact us today for more information.

For more information give us a call.

01844 345105

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