Living with dementia
Dementia can affect all aspects of a person's life, as well as those around them.
If you have been diagnosed with dementia, it's important to remember that:
- you're still you, even though you have problems with memory, concentration and planning
- everyone experiences dementia differently
- focusing on the things you can still do and enjoy will help you to stay positive.
Your care plan
Having a care plan and getting a needs assessment are vital for supporting people with dementia.
The NHS has a Dementia Information Service website that can guide people with dementia following diagnosis.
With the right help and support when you need it, many people can, and do, live well with dementia for several years.
Living at home with dementia
In the early stages of dementia, many people are able to live at home and enjoy life in the same way as before their diagnosis.
Following a dementia diagnosis, you should have been given advice on how you can keep doing what is important to you for as long as possible as well as information about local support and services that you may find helpful.
But as the illness gets worse, it is likely that you will find it more difficult to look after yourself and your home. You may then need extra help with daily activities, such as housework, shopping and adaptations to your home.
Support for people with dementia
There is plenty of support available for those suffering from dementia. Many people with mild-to-moderate dementia can stay in their own home and live well if they have adequate support. Being in familiar surroundings can help people cope better with their condition.
Homecare support is available which includes support with getting dressed, help with eating, and help with washing and going to the toilet for example. Some homecare agencies provide domestic help as part of their services such as cleaning and ironing etc.
Alzheimer’s Society
The Alzheimer’s Society is the UK’s leading dementia charity. They campaign for change, fund research to find a cure and support people living with dementia today.
The society's Dementia Connect service aims to transform the support people receive and will provide the right support in the best way for each individual person. It is free, easy to access and puts you in touch with the right support. From local help to phone and online advice.
Age UK
Age UK offer a range of information and advice for older people around the country. They help tackle loneliness, get older people active, and support people to stay independent for longer – one way of doing this is by putting people in control of the care they receive, while sharing best practice to improve services.
Their website has plenty of information and advice on dementia from understanding the disease to getting the care and support you need.
Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association was founded in 1980 by a group of family caregivers and individuals who recognized the need for an organisation that would unite caregivers, provide support to those facing Alzheimer’s and advance research into the disease.
The society's website offers information and support for both the individuals and their families.
Dementia UK
Dementia UK provides specialist dementia support for families through their Admiral Nurse service. They give the compassionate one-to-one support, guidance and practical solutions people need, and that can be hard to find elsewhere. They also provide specific support for carers of those with dementia.