Making life EASIER

Caring for a loved one? It’s important to know that you’re not alone

Dementia care at home can be challenging and, according to Alzheimer’s Society, there are around 700,000 ‘unsung heroes’ in the UK providing unpaid dementia care for their loved ones. While dementia symptoms vary depending on type and stage, the progressive nature of conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, means that a person with dementia often has complex needs. It’s no surprise that loved ones can feel overwhelmed by the physical and emotional load that comes with being a carer.

‘Ask for help, even at the earlier stages,’ says psychiatrist Dr Arghya Sarkhel (livingmind.co.uk). ‘Getting someone into clubs or day centres can make a huge difference.’ And keep speaking to professionals so you know how the illness is progressing, and for reassurance that support is available at every stage. ‘This can help with longterm planning,’ adds Dr Sarkhel.

CARING TIPS FOR DAILY LIFE

✢ Distract from challenging behaviours

Anger or aggression can be expressions of unmet needs. ‘Shift the focus by playing relaxing music, or suggesting a walk or other activity. Always reassure them they are safe,’ says Alzheimer’s behavioural expert Lisa Skinner.

✢ Nurture your bond

In all stages of the condition, spending time together can be rewarding. ‘It’s common for people with dementia to have trouble hearing or seeing, so sit somewhere well-lit without distractions. This will help get the most out of a conversation,’ says Emma Bould, programme partnership project manager at Alzheimer’s Society. ✢ Use your support network Unsure how to handle a distressing moment? ‘Sometimes a “change of face”, or bringing another caregiver or family member into the situation, can help resolve it,’ says Lisa.

✢ Stay positive

Try not to be disheartened by symptoms such as memory loss. ‘Even if a loved one doesn’t remember a visit or chat, the feelings of love, happiness and comfort can have a lasting effect,’ says Emma.

✢ Look after your wellbeing

Taking regular time out will build your resilience as a carer. Find small, daily ways to help you relax, such as going for a walk or having a soak in the bath.

MAKING DIFFICULT DECISIONS

A time might come when caring at home is no longer viable, and along with the emotional worries of moving a loved one into a care home, there are financial implications. Lack of social care funding means a person with dementia will spend around £100,000 over five years on their care, says Gavin Terry, head of policy at Alzheimer’s Society. ‘Social care is means-tested, so, currently, if you have more than £23,250 in assets, you have to “self-fund”, with your council contributing or taking over all costs if you have less than this amount,’ he explains. From October 2023, the Government will introduce new reforms that raise this threshold to £100,000 and set a lifetime cap of £86,000 for selffunded costs. But plan in advance as much as possible, visit care homes and assess your options.