Dementia Care Advice

We understand the importance of making well-informed decisions when it comes to your loved ones' care. To help we've curated a collection of person-centered dementia care resources, plus frequently asked questions (FAQs) below.

Dementia care advice

Articles

Understanding dementia symptoms

2026 01 15

Dementia FAQ's

Explore our extensive list of frequently asked questions, tailored specifically to address dementia care support and advice, helping to provide you with the answers you need to make the most informed decisions for your loved ones.

What is dementia care in a care home?

Dementia care in a care home refers to specialised care and support provided to individuals living with dementia. The focus is on creating a safe and supportive environment that addresses the unique needs and challenges associated with dementia.

How are dementia care homes different from regular care homes?

Dementia care homes are specifically designed and staffed to cater to the needs of individuals with dementia. They offer dementia-friendly environments, specialised activities, and trained staff who understand the complexities of dementia care.

What services are typically offered in dementia care homes?

Dementia care homes provide personalised care plans, assistance with daily activities, memory-enhancing activities, cognitive stimulation, behavioural management, and emotional support for both residents and their families.

How do dementia care homes ensure resident safety?

Dementia care homes implement safety measures, such as secure entrances and exits, alarms on doors, and staff trained in dementia care to prevent wandering and ensure the safety of residents.

Can family members be involved in the care of a loved one with dementia?

Yes, family members are encouraged to be actively involved in the care of their loved ones with dementia. Many care homes facilitate family participation and provide support and resources for family caregivers.

Are dementia care homes equipped to handle the different stages of dementia?

Yes, dementia care homes are designed to adapt to the changing needs of residents as dementia progresses. They provide care and support for individuals in various stages of the disease.

How do dementia care homes manage challenging presentations?

Dementia care homes have staff trained in techniques to de-escalate and manage challenging presentations that may arise due to dementia-related symptoms.

Can residents with dementia participate in activities and social interactions?

Yes, dementia care homes offer activities and social interactions tailored to residents' abilities and interests. These activities promote engagement, cognitive stimulation, and emotional well-being.

Do dementia care homes offer memory-enhancing therapies?

Yes, dementia care homes often provide memory-enhancing therapies, such as reminiscence therapy and cognitive stimulation exercises, to help residents maintain cognitive function and memory.

How do dementia care homes promote a dementia-friendly environment?

Dementia care homes create dementia-friendly environments by using cues and signage, reducing sensory overload, providing structured routines, and offering calming spaces for residents.

What Are They Key Signs Of Dementia?

Dementia is a broad term used to describe a range of cognitive impairments that interfere with daily functioning and activities. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, but there are other types as well. While the symptoms of dementia can vary depending on the specific type and stage of the condition.

Memory loss

One of the most common early signs of dementia is experiencing significant memory loss that affects daily activities. This may include forgetting recent events, repeatedly asking the same questions, or struggling to remember appointments and important dates.

Difficulty with communication

People with dementia may have trouble finding the right words or following conversations. They might repeat themselves or struggle to express their thoughts coherently.

Disorientation and confusion

Individuals with dementia may become disoriented, even in familiar places. They might lose track of time, forget where they are, or how they got there.

Impaired judgment and decision-making

Dementia can lead to poor judgment, making it challenging for the affected person to make sound decisions or solve problems effectively.

Difficulty with familiar tasks: A person with dementia might struggle to complete tasks they have been doing for years, such as cooking a meal or getting dressed.

Challenges in planning and organising

Planning and organising activities become increasingly difficult for individuals with dementia. They may have trouble following steps in a familiar routine.

Misplacing items and inability to retrace steps

People with dementia might put things in unusual places and then struggle to retrace their steps to find them.

Changes in mood and personality

Dementia can cause changes in mood and personality, leading to increased confusion, anxiety, depression, irritability, or withdrawal from social activities.

Decreased or poor judgment

Individuals with dementia may exhibit impaired judgment, such as giving large amounts of money to telemarketers or trusting strangers too easily.

Decline in self-care

As dementia progresses, individuals may neglect their personal hygiene, forget to eat, or have difficulty managing their medications.

It is important to note that some of these symptoms can be part of normal aging or due to other medical conditions. However, if you or a loved one are experiencing persistent or worsening cognitive difficulties, it's crucial to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate care and support. Early detection and intervention can lead to better management and quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers.

To find out more about what’s on offer at our individual nursing and care homes, please see our portfolio of homes for further details.