Supporting a loved one with dementia

At Right at Home, we understand the everyday challenges of supporting a loved one living with dementia and how it can take its toll both physically and emotionally. CareGivers often focus solely on the person they are caring for and forget about their own health and wellbeing.

In today’s blog, we provide tips for CareGivers on how they can look after themselves.

• Ask for help – Don’t be afraid to ask for help from other family members, neighbours or friends, and share responsibilities. You are only one person and there is only so much one person can do.
• Take time for yourself – Try to find time to reflect and relax, enjoy personal interests and hobbies, and socialise with friends and family. Making time for yourself will lead to a happier you and ultimately allow you to provide the best support possible for your loved one.  
• Get moving – Exercise is great for your own physical and mental health. Regular exercise not only keeps you fit, it releases endorphins that can really boost your mood. Try to aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days, or as often as you can. If it’s difficult to get away for that long at once, break the time up into 10-minute sessions throughout the day.
• Use technology to make your life easier – You can use the internet to set up online banking to pay bills or shop online to buy groceries that can be delivered to your door.  
• Talk to other CareGivers – Activities such as dementia friendly cafés are not only a good opportunity to get your loved one out and about in the local community and meet new people, it’s also a great chance for you to talk to other CareGivers about your experiences and share tips and advice. You may find it easier to talk to other CareGivers because they are in the same position as you and understand some of the daily challenges you may face. There are also CareGiver support groups online, such as Alzheimer’s Society’s Talking Point.

Take a look at Alzheimer’s Society’s excellent guidance ‘Carers: looking after yourself’ for more tips and advice.

If you would like more information on how we can support you to care for a loved one with dementia, please contact our friendly team today.

Related articles

Right at Home proudly supports Dementia Action Week 2019
DAW 2019: FAQs on dementia answered – part one
DAW 2019: FAQs on dementia answered – part two

Sources – NHS website and Alzheimer’s Society website.