Care advice hub

Receiving care, whether at a residential care facility or at home, is entirely dependent on the individual’s needs. There is no average age to go into a care home, and live-in care can benefit anyone with care and support needs. However, certain conditions, which may progressively worsen over time, can necessitate additional support and care as symptoms become more severe.

Dementia is an example of a condition where care needs will change as the condition progresses. As more symptoms appear, your loved one may find it challenging to continue living independently at home. If this is the case, it is time to consider some form of extra support for your loved one.

We will discuss when is the right time for you to start thinking about care for a loved one living with dementia. From the signs and symptoms that may prompt you to begin care planning to who makes the final decision, we will unpack this sensitive topic.

How long can a person with dementia live at home?

It is difficult to predict how long a person with dementia can live at home as dementia affects individuals differently depending on factors such as the type of dementia, age, general health and lifestyle. In some cases, dementia progresses rapidly, while in others, the changes develop slowly over months or years.

In the early stages of the condition, only a few symptoms may present themselves, and these are often quite subtle to spot. At this point, depending on the individual’s diagnosis, living at home can still be a possibility.

However, cognitive symptoms such as memory loss and confusion, which develop over time with this condition, can put your loved one at risk. Living alone when an individual cannot remember if they have switched off the iron or left something cooking on the stove unsupervised can be dangerous. At this stage, living in their own home is not completely ruled out, but a helping hand is a good idea.

Enlisting the support of a live-in carer offers your loved one the best of both worlds. Staying in the familiar surroundings of home whilst receiving personalised dementia care. A live-in carer can not only ensure the safety of your loved one but also help them with the daily tasks they may be beginning to struggle with. In addition, alongside the mental effects of dementia, this may also be accompanied by increased hospital visits and other signs of physical deterioration.

Types of dementia care available

As dementia progresses and impacts an individual’s quality of life, it  becomes clear that dementia care is required. There are a variety of dementia care options available out there. The first step is to better understand the advantages and disadvantages of each and settle on the most appropriate form of care for your loved one living with dementia.

The most common form of care people think of when seeking out dementia care is care homes or nursing homes. Whilst these offer benefits such as specialised dementia care and in the case of nursing homes, nursing staff on hand, this is not the only option in the case of nursing homes.

An alternative to the care or nursing home setting is live-in care administered in the comfort and familiar surroundings of the individual’s own home. Live-in care also offers round-the-clock support. However, it provides an added benefit. As people living with dementia often experience feelings of confusion, which can result in distress, moving into a care home facility could exacerbate this. Therefore, being able to stay at home is preferable among individuals living with dementia.

Signs someone with dementia needs extra support

Anxiety & distress

“Sundowning” is a term used to reflect the intense feelings of anxiety people living with dementia may experience, typically as the sun begins to set. They may start to believe that they need to go home even if they are already there or feel that they are in the wrong place. Also, they may feel confused about the time of day or phase of their life. For example, they may believe their adult children still need to be picked up from school.

Not only does this result in missed meals due to confusion over time, but the anxiety can lead to panic and distress. Extra support in the form of a visiting or live-in carer can help to manage these incidents of intense anxiety and safely calm their fears.

Memory problems

In addition to confusion, people with dementia commonly experience problems recalling things that have happened in the past. Memory problems can also affect an individual’s ability to recognise family and friends, making them susceptible to door-to-door and telephone scammers.

Alongside protecting an individual’s safety and security in their own home, a live-in carer can also remind them to carry out important tasks as part of their daily routine. A person living with dementia can forget to eat, drink, bathe, and look after themselves in general. This is where extra support can be beneficial in facilitating the everyday activities that are essential to ensuring a healthy life.

How can my loved one benefit from dementia care?

Dementia care can help to support a loved one as they go through the ever-changing symptoms associated with this progressive condition. There comes a time when living alone at home becomes risky and is not in the best interest of your loved one. Arranging suitable dementia care can ensure they continue living as independently as possible. The benefits of live-in dementia care for your loved one include:

• Staying in the comfortable and familiar surroundings of home
• Receiving specialist dementia care from an experienced live-in carer
• Management of periods of anxiety and distress
• Help managing behaviour and personality changes
• Assistance with personal care such as bathing, dressing, and toileting
• Meal preparation and meal time reminders
• Medication management
• Transportation to and from hospital appointments and social activities
• Friendly companionship and emotional support

Who decides?

Who decides on the next steps depends on whether your loved one is able to understand and make decisions for themselves. If they are fully aware of the choices available to them and are able to assess their situation, then the decision lies with them.

However, in some cases the dementia has already progressed to a stage where the individual’s decision making capabilities are compromised. If this is the case, then someone else, perhaps you or another family member, will need to make the decision for them.

An individual living with dementia may have already made a statement about their care plans clear prior to the worsening of their condition. If so, then this should be adhered to. Equally, they may have given an assigned individual Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). This means that the person given LPA can decide about your loved one’s health and welfare on their behalf.

Furthermore, if your loved one is receiving funding, this may also impact their care choices if they would like to move into a care home facility. The care home also has a say in the residents it accepts, depending on availability and your loved one’s individual circumstances.

With all this to bear in mind, deciding on dementia care for your loved one involves many factors, from considering their decision making capabilities to their wishes. Which care option to choose will become apparent when the time comes to seek extra support.

Talk to us about your dementia care needs

Our friendly and experienced team is here to help you and your family make sense of the options available to you. Call us today – we will help you every step of the way.

0203 728 7577

Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming and raise many questions about the future. At The Good Care Group, our dementia care experts are here to guide you through this challenging time.

Understanding the next steps is crucial to ensuring the best possible care and support for your loved one. From accessing professional care services to finding emotional and practical support, we provide comprehensive guidance to help you navigate the journey ahead.

Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and resources needed to create a fulfilling and supportive environment for your loved one, ensuring they continue to live a life of dignity and comfort.

Get assessed for care and support

After a dementia diagnosis, one of the first steps is to get assessed for care and support. Your local authority is obligated to conduct a care and support needs assessment to determine the help your loved one’s require. This assessment is free of charge and aims to identify the specific support needed to improve quality of life and manage the condition effectively.

You can apply for a needs assessment through social services on the GOV.UK website. Additionally, a GP or other health or social care professional can refer you to your local authority, provided they have your consent.

For more detailed information on applying for a care needs assessment, explore our guide on social care funding.

Explore support services

Once our loved one has been assessed for care and support, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with the available services in their area. Being informed and prepared will enable you to access the support they need effectively when the time arises.

Local authorities offer various services, including home care services, equipment provision, and adaptations for their homes. These services are designed to promote independence and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with dementia.

Additionally, the NHS arranges some services, such as community nursing. Patients can obtain further information about these services from their hospital consultant or GP.

Charitable organisations like Age UK, Alzheimer’s Society, and Dementia UK provide a wide range of support services tailored to the needs of individuals with dementia and their caregivers. These services may include helplines, support groups, day centres, shopping services, and home care.

Put your papers in order

It’s important to get important papers in order after a dementia diagnosis, starting with making a will if you haven’t already. This ensures that your money and possessions will go to the people they choose.

A person with dementia can still make or change a will, as long as they understand what they are doing and the implications of their decisions. A solicitor can provide guidance and confirm if this is the case.

Make sure all your loved one’s essential documents are easy to locate. This includes bank statements, mortgage or rental agreements, insurance policies, will, tax and pension information, utility bills, and warranties.

You might also want to set up direct debits or standing orders for regular bills. This ensures they are paid automatically from a bank account each month, helping you manage finances more easily.

Check to see if you’re entitled to any benefits

Ensure you’re claiming all the benefits you’re entitled to.

In particular, check whether:

• You qualify for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Attendance Allowance. You can find more details on our page about benefits for those over State Pension age.
• Your carer, if you have one, is eligible for Carer’s Allowance.
• Other benefits you might be eligible for include Income Support, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, and Pension Credit.

For more information about benefits and how to claim them, visit our guide on local authority support.

Create a lasting power of attorney

Consider appointing one or more trusted individuals as an “attorney” to manage your affairs, including finances, property, and medical treatment, should it become necessary in the future.

You can choose anyone you trust to be your power of attorney, typically a close friend or family member, as long as they are over 18 years old.

For more information about setting up a lasting power of attorney, visit our guide on power of attorney.

Inform the DVLA

While a diagnosis of dementia doesn’t always mean an immediate halt to driving, it’s crucial to inform the DVLA and your car insurance provider promptly.

Visit the official GOV.UK website to learn the necessary steps for notifying the DVLA about your condition.

Upon receiving your notification, the DVLA may reach out to your hospital consultant or GP for additional details. They might also arrange evaluations of your driving skills or eyesight to ensure continued safety on the road.

For further insights into navigating the intersection of dementia and driving, consult the resources available through the Alzheimer’s Society.

Take care of your health

Ensuring the well-being of your loved one is paramount when managing dementia.

To prioritise their health:

• Arrange a consultation with their GP if they exhibit signs of low mood or depression. While common in dementia, various treatment options, including talking therapies, may provide relief.
• Encourage them to maintain a balanced diet to support overall health.
• Incorporate regular physical activities into their routine, such as daily walks, gardening, or tai chi practice.
• Discuss with their GP the possibility of receiving flu and pneumococcal vaccines to protect against infections.
• Ensure they undergo regular dental, eyesight, and hearing examinations to maintain optimal sensory health.
• Promptly address any health concerns by consulting with their GP. Untreated issues, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), can worsen confusion or agitation if left untreated.

Explore our comprehensive dementia care advice hub for further guidance on caring for and supporting a loved one with dementia.

Plan for future care

Planning for future care is crucial after a dementia diagnosis. As dementia progresses, individuals may face increasing challenges in managing daily activities, personal care, and maintaining their overall well-being. Cognitive decline, memory loss, and changes in behaviour can make it difficult to live independently. This is why considering future care options early on ensures that the individual receives the necessary support and maintains the best possible quality of life.

Professional dementia care can provide the specialised support needed as the condition advances. The Good Care Group offers expert dementia care services tailored to each person’s unique needs. Our highly trained carers deliver compassionate, one-on-one support that allows individuals to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. This personalised approach not only addresses the physical and emotional needs of those with dementia but also offers peace of mind for their families.

Planning ahead enables you to make informed decisions about the type of care you prefer, ensuring that your wishes are respected. Whether you need help with daily activities, medication management, or emotional support, The Good Care Group is here to provide exceptional care tailored to your needs.

Take the first step in securing the future care of your loved one by exploring our dementia care services. Contact The Good Care Group today to learn more about how we can support you and your family through every stage of dementia.

Dementia is a complex and challenging condition that profoundly impacts the lives of thousands of families across the UK. As we age, our brains undergo natural changes, but dementia accelerates and intensifies these processes, leading to a decline in cognitive function and memory loss. Understanding how dementia affects the mind is crucial not only for those directly affected by the condition but also for their carers, families, and communities.

In this guide, we explore the intricate ways in which dementia alters the functioning of the brain, shedding light on the neurological mechanisms behind this disorder and how you can provide the best support to your loved ones.

What does dementia do to the brain?

Dementia encompasses a range of neurological disorders that lead to progressive cognitive decline. At its core, dementia fundamentally alters the structure and function of the brain. The most common form, Alzheimer’s disease, is characterised by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles, which disrupt communication between neurons and ultimately cause neuronal death. Other types of dementia, such as vascular dementia, result from impaired blood flow to the brain, leading to tissue damage and cognitive deficits.

The brain, a highly intricate organ, relies on a delicate balance of chemical and electrical signals to function optimally. Dementia disrupts this balance, causing widespread changes that affect memory, thinking, and behaviour. As neurons deteriorate, the brain’s ability to process and recall information diminishes, leading to the hallmark symptoms of memory loss and confusion.

In addition to memory impairment, functions of the brain affected by dementia include language, reasoning, and executive function. These changes often manifest gradually but progressively, making early diagnosis and intervention crucial.

Symptoms of dementia affecting the mind

Dementia and the brain interact in intricate ways, altering cognitive functioning and sometimes also behaviours. Dementia impacts cognitive functions leading to a range of symptoms that affect the brain and mind. These symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage of dementia, but they all contribute to the significant challenges faced by individuals living with this condition.

Memory loss

Memory loss is one of the most well-known and early symptoms of dementia. It often starts with difficulty remembering recent events while older memories remain intact. As the condition progresses, individuals may struggle to recall names, faces, appointments, and personal experiences, severely impacting daily life and independence.

Cognitive decline

Dementia leads to a gradual decline in various cognitive abilities, including:

• Attention and concentration: Difficulty in maintaining focus on tasks or conversations.
• Executive functioning: Problems with brain function and dementia include challenges with planning, decision-making, problem-solving, and organising daily activities.
• Language skills: Challenges in finding the right words, following conversations, and understanding written or spoken language.
• Visuospatial abilities: Difficulty in judging distances, navigating spaces, and recognising objects or faces.

Impaired judgement and reasoning

Individuals with dementia often experience a decline in judgement and reasoning skills. This can lead to poor decision-making, difficulty understanding safety risks, and challenges in handling finances or managing medications.

Changes in behaviour and personality

Dementia can cause significant changes in behaviour and personality, including:

• Apathy: Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.
• Agitation and aggression: Increased irritability, restlessness, or physical aggression, often triggered by confusion or frustration.
• Social withdrawal: Avoidance of social interactions and activities.

Emotional disturbances

Emotional well-being can also be affected by dementia. Common emotional symptoms include:

• Depression: Persistent sadness, lack of motivation, and feelings of hopelessness.
• Anxiety: Excessive worry, fear, and feelings of panic, often related to cognitive decline and disorientation.
• Mood swings: Rapid and unpredictable changes in mood, from happiness to anger or sadness without clear triggers.

Hallucinations and delusions

Some types of dementia, such as Lewy body dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, can cause hallucinations and delusions. Individuals may see, hear, or believe things that are not present, which can be frightening and disorienting for them and their caregivers.

Sleep disturbances

Sleep problems are common in dementia, including:

• Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
• Day-Night Reversal: Confusion between day and night, leading to sleeping during the day and being awake at night.
• REM Sleep Behavior Disorder: Acting out dreams physically, sometimes violently.

Loss of initiative

As dementia progresses, individuals may lose the initiative to start activities or engage in conversations. This can lead to increased dependency on caregivers and reduced participation in daily life.

How dementia symptoms affect the brain

Dementia encompasses various neurological conditions that progressively impair cognitive functions and behaviours. Each type of dementia affects the brain differently, leading to a distinct pattern of symptoms.

Alzheimer’s disease

In Alzheimer’s disease, the initial damage often occurs in the hippocampus and its surrounding areas, which are vital for forming new memories and learning new information. Consequently, individuals with Alzheimer’s may find it difficult to remember recent events or conversations, leading to repetitive speech and actions.

As the disease progresses, it affects other brain regions, including the amygdala, which is involved in emotional responses. While individuals may struggle to recall specific details, they often retain emotional memories, responding based on their feelings towards people and places.

The disease also impacts the cortex, causing it to thin and shrink, contributing to the loss of older memories. Damage to the left hemisphere affects language and semantic memory, making it challenging to find the right words. Meanwhile, impairment in the visual processing areas of the temporal lobes makes recognising familiar faces and objects difficult, though auditory recognition might still function well.

As Alzheimer’s advances to the frontal lobes, decision-making, planning, and organising become increasingly difficult, affecting tasks such as managing finances or following complex instructions. Despite these losses, procedural memories, such as playing the piano or dancing, often remain intact the longest due to their deep storage within the brain.

Frontotemporal Dementia

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) primarily affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, areas responsible for behaviour, personality, and language. This leads to significant changes in personality and social behaviour early in the disease. Individuals may exhibit uncharacteristic impulsivity, apathy, or socially inappropriate behaviours due to the deterioration of the frontal lobes.

Language difficulties are also common, with some forms of FTD causing progressive aphasia, which impairs the ability to speak, understand, read, or write. Unlike Alzheimer’s, memory often remains relatively intact in the early stages, but the ability to manage daily tasks and maintain relationships deteriorates rapidly as the disease progresses.

Dementia with Lewy Bodies

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is characterised by the presence of abnormal protein deposits called Lewy bodies in the brain. This form of dementia affects cognitive functions, movement, and behaviour. Early symptoms often include fluctuations in attention and alertness, visual hallucinations, and Parkinsonian motor symptoms such as rigidity and bradykinesia.

The visual hallucinations associated with DLB are a distinguishing feature and can be particularly distressing. The presence of Lewy bodies disrupts the normal functioning of neurotransmitters, affecting both cognitive and motor functions. Additionally, individuals with DLB often experience REM sleep behaviour disorder, where they physically act out their dreams, sometimes violently.

As the disease progresses, it impacts various brain regions, leading to more pronounced cognitive decline and motor difficulties. The combination of these symptoms makes DLB a complex and challenging condition to manage, requiring a comprehensive and adaptive care approach.

Dementia and mental health

Dementia significantly impacts not only cognitive functions but also mental health, creating a complex interplay of challenges for those affected and their caregivers. Understanding this relationship is crucial for providing comprehensive care and support.

Individuals with dementia often experience a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and mood swings. These conditions can arise from the direct effects of brain changes caused by dementia, as well as from the frustration and confusion associated with the loss of cognitive abilities.

Depression is particularly common among those with dementia. It may manifest as persistent sadness, a loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and feelings of hopelessness. Recognising and treating depression in dementia patients is essential, as it can significantly affect their quality of life and exacerbate cognitive decline.

Mood swings and irritability are also frequent in dementia, partly due to the disease’s impact on brain regions that regulate emotions. These mood changes can be challenging for both the individual and their caregivers, necessitating patience, empathy, and effective communication strategies.

In some cases, dementia can lead to more severe mental health issues, such as psychosis, where individuals may experience delusions or hallucinations. These symptoms can be particularly distressing and require specialised care and treatment.

Addressing the mental health needs of those with dementia involves a holistic approach that includes medical treatment, psychological support, and social engagement. Creating a stable, supportive environment and ensuring regular mental health assessments are crucial steps in managing the complex mental health challenges associated with dementia.

Signs your loved one needs support

Recognising when a loved one needs support is crucial for ensuring their well-being and safety, especially when dealing with conditions like dementia. Here are key signs that indicate your loved one may require additional help:

• Memory problems: Frequently forgetting names, appointments, or recent events, and misplacing items in unusual places.
• Difficulty with daily tasks: Struggling to perform routine activities such as cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene, and managing medications.
• Changes in behaviour: Exhibiting mood swings, increased irritability, aggression, or noticeable changes in personality and behaviour.
• Social withdrawal: Avoiding social interactions and losing interest in activities they once enjoyed.
• Confusion and disorientation: Becoming easily confused about time, place, or familiar people, and having trouble navigating familiar environments.
• Poor judgement and decision-making: Making unsafe decisions, neglecting personal safety, or having difficulty managing finances and other responsibilities.

How can I provide support?

Supporting a loved one to live well with dementia requires patience, understanding, and a comprehensive approach. Here are some effective ways to provide support:

• Create a safe environment: Ensure their living space is safe and accessible, with clear pathways, good lighting, and minimise hazards.
• Establish routines: Develop consistent daily routines to provide structure and reduce confusion.
• Encourage social interaction: Help them stay socially active through family visits, community activities, or support groups.
• Assist with daily tasks: Offer help with cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene, and managing medications.
• Promote mental and physical activity: Engage them in activities that stimulate their mind and body, such as puzzles, reading, walks, or gentle exercises.
• Provide emotional support: Be patient, listen to their concerns, and offer reassurance and comfort to help manage their emotional well-being.

Download our dementia care guide for more tips and guidance.

CQC-rated ‘Outstanding’ live-in dementia care

At The Good Care Group, we know receiving bespoke dementia care in the comfort, safety and familiarity of your own home has far reaching benefits in improving health and well-being for a person living with dementia. For over 10 years, we’ve helped countless families just like yours receive the dedicated dementia care they need in the place they love most – their own home.

Contact us for your free, no-obligation home care assessment. We will meet with you and your family at a convenient time to discuss your care needs and how we can help.