"Just like most people, dementia has touched our family. My Nan on Mum’s side had Alzheimer’s and my Grandad on my Dad’s side had Vascular Dementia. With my Grandad there had been some early signs that manifested as anxiety, but he had some small strokes that confirmed the problem. He was able to remain in his own home until quite near the end of his life. I saw first hand how hard it can be for carers, especially when they are elderly themselves.
It’s quite a few years ago now and I wish I had know about Dementia Friends at the time. At FMB we have continued our training on how we can support clients and their families living with a dementia diagnosis. You can also access this training via the Dementia Friends platform, the videos are very useful indeed. All the team that have watched the videos have all commented on how it has changed their perspective and increased their understanding, I highly recommend you give them a watch.
Alzheimer’s Research UK estimated in 2023 that if nothing changes, one in two people will be directly affected by dementia. They will either care for someone with the condition, develop it themselves, or both. Our training has shown that understanding the condition can go a long way to improving the lives of those living with dementia, the Alzheimer’s Society’s mission is to create a world where dementia no longer devastates lives.
Caring for someone with Dementia is demanding, but here are some ideas that help create a better environment and avoid some pitfalls. To care for someone with dementia, focus on communication, routine, and their environment. Tips include establishing a daily routine, making the home safer, creating a “grab folder” of key information, and prioritising your own well-being through breaks and support. Communicating effectively means avoiding arguments; while focusing on calm, enjoyable activities can preserve your relationship.
Establish and keep a routine:
A consistent schedule for daily activities like bathing, dressing and eating can reduce confusion and anxiety.
Adapt the home environment:
Make your home dementia-friendly by removing clutter, adding safety features like grab bars, improving lighting and securing dangerous items.
Create a “grab folder”:
Keep all essential information in one place, such as medication lists, doctor details and allergies. This is helpful for appointments and emergencies.
Communicate with empathy:
Avoid arguing or confronting, as it is often unproductive. Even if you know you are right, just go along with their point of view and try to show empathy through validation.
Meet them where they are:
Your loved one may be immersed in a previous memory, but it might not have been a happy time. Remembering the past is not always pleasant, be mindful of this.
Prioritise your own health and well-being:
It’s crucial to avoid burnout. Take regular breaks, accept help when offered and find time for yourself.
Encourage calm and simple activities:
Engage in enjoyable activities like listening to music or looking at photos. Keep mealtimes calm and unhurried.
Plan for the evenings:
Since “sundowning” can make people more restless as daylight fades, start a wind-down routine before dusk with soft lighting and a warm drink.
Focus on what you can control:
Don’t get overwhelmed by setting high expectations for what can be accomplished in a day. It’s more important to be flexible and go with the flow.
Educate yourself:
Understanding the condition and its progression can help you anticipate changes in behaviour and communication, making it easier to adapt.
Accept help and build a support system:
Don’t try to do it all alone. Ask for help from friends and family or connect with other caregivers for support. Carers organisations such as South Lakes Carers are a great community to get help and friendship.
The picture is Grandad Jack and wife Mary, both very special people to me and my sister Liz (also MD of FMB). Some of you may have been at this FMB event in 2007 to celebrate our 20th anniversary."
- Ruth Power, FMB Operations Director