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How to Support Someone with Dementia

At Beechcroft Care Home, we understand how deeply emotional it can be to watch a loved one go through the challenges of dementia. If someone close to you has been diagnosed, you may find yourself grappling with a mix of emotions such as sadness, worry, confusion, and even frustration. It’s completely natural to feel overwhelmed.

Supporting someone with dementia can feel daunting, but you're not alone. With the right understanding and approach, you can make a meaningful difference to their quality of life and ease some of the emotional weight you may be carrying, too. We're here to help guide and support you every step of the way.

The Impact of Dementia

Understanding how to support someone with dementia begins with acknowledging the impact of the condition. You should know that dementia isn’t a disease that exists on its own; it’s an umbrella term for a range of conditions that impact brain health.

Dementia can cause a range of side effects from memory impairment to language issues, personality changes and more. Since the symptoms of dementia progress over time, there’s no way to predict accurately how somebody will experience dementia. For this reason, learning how to support a loved one with dementia will require a considered approach that evolves.

Familiarity is Essential for Those With Dementia

Everyone benefits from familiarity but people with dementia really depend on it. Whether your loved one is already living in a care home such as Beechcroft or elsewhere, it’s essential to keep to a schedule. Your predictable presence and regular visiting can bring about plenty of reassurance and comfort which helps the person with dementia to feel safe.

As the condition progresses, many people begin to rely more on emotional memory. This can look like forgetting names and even faces, however, they often remember feelings. By making your loved one feel emotions through caring conversations, old photographs, and discussing memories, you might find that their anxiety and confusion ease.

Creating a Safe Living Environment

If your loved one is still living at home, it’s essential to ensure that their space is safe, calm, and familiar. Clear away potential hazards, label cupboards, and use memory aids like calendars and reminder notes to help them navigate their day-to-day life. Try to maintain a consistent routine and avoid sudden changes, as these can be disorienting.

When thinking about how to support someone with dementia, a stable environment is one of the most powerful tools you have. Familiarity reduces stress and can help individuals maintain independence for longer.

Practice Patience and Ask For Help

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re supporting someone with dementia, especially during moments of confusion or frustration.

But remember: they’re likely feeling just as distressed as you are. For this reason, patience, calm communication, and gentle reassurance should be a priority. If the person makes mistakes, ensure that you don’t correct them with a sharp tone. Instead, gently encourage them through empathetic communication. The worst thing that you can do is argue with somebody who has dementia; this can escalate situations and often causes deep distress.

In situations where you feel overwhelmed or like you can’t handle the scenario alone, seek support from other family members and professionals. Not only does this ensure that your loved one receives the best care, but it helps to reduce your stress, too.

At Beechcroft Care Homes, we understand the complexities of dementia and the impact it has on both the individual and their family. Our dedicated team provides compassionate, person-centred care tailored to each resident’s unique needs. Whether you need long-term support or short-term assistance through our respite care services, we’re here to help.

Don’t Forget Self-Care

When thinking about supporting someone with dementia, it’s easy to forget about your own wellbeing. But self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential for carers.

Caregiver fatigue is a very real issue, and you’ll be better able to provide support if you’re rested and emotionally balanced. Talk to others going through similar experiences, and be sure to unwind; you shouldn’t burn yourself out while caring for another.

By being mindful of how caring for another person is impacting you, you’ll be better equipped to show up. With this said, you shouldn’t feel guilty if you need to take a day off, instead know that there is likely somebody or a service that can step in for you.

Dementia Care You Can Trust

Supporting someone with dementia shouldn’t be an independent mission. Instead, at Beechcroft Care Homes, it’s a collaborative approach between family, friends, and trained professionals.

If you’re unsure about the best next step or simply need a break, Beechcroft Care Homes offers high-quality respite care in a safe, supportive environment. Our friendly team is here to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to find out how we can support you and your loved one on this journey.