Families supporting loved ones with Alzheimer’s are being offered practical advice from home care specialists in Swindon, who have shared 50 tips based on decades of experience caring for people living with dementia.
Helping Hands Home Care has published the advice to mark World Alzheimer’s Month, which takes place throughout September and aims to raise awareness of the condition and the support available to those affected by it.
The tips have been drawn from the experiences of Helping Hands carers, who provide care for thousands of people living with dementia in their own homes across England and Wales.
The advice covers everyday situations including communicating with someone living with Alzheimer’s, making changes around the home and recognising when someone may be becoming distressed.
Honor Elliott, Clinical Manager at Helping Hands, oversees a team of registered nurses who provide dementia training and develop individualised support plans and risk assessments.
She said families should remember that Alzheimer’s affects people differently.
“Every person living with Alzheimer’s experiences the condition differently, which can make it difficult for families to know how best to support a loved one,” she said.
“That said, these tips are excellent starting points drawn from years of experience.”
One of the suggestions is to avoid arguing with someone about their perception of reality.
Elliott said correcting a person when they say something that is not factually correct can sometimes increase their distress, even when the intention is to help.
Another recommendation is not to automatically assume that a sudden change in behaviour is caused by dementia.
Confusion or distress can sometimes be associated with pain, infection, dehydration, medication or another health problem. Families are therefore advised to seek medical advice when there is a sudden or concerning change.
The campaign is also highlighting some of the potential early signs of Alzheimer’s.
These can include increasing memory lapses, difficulty following conversations, struggling to find the right words, becoming confused about where they are and withdrawing from hobbies or social activities.
Families who notice such changes are encouraged to speak to their GP. An early diagnosis can provide earlier access to advice, support and appropriate services.
Elliott said World Alzheimer’s Month provided an opportunity to make conversations about the condition more open.
“As the country’s population continues to age, more and more people are likely to develop Alzheimer’s,” she said.
“If more families and partners can understand the signs to look for and what steps they can put in place to help, the better off many people developing the condition will be.”
Helping Hands has provided home care for more than 36 years and supports people living with dementia in their own homes and communities.
The full list of 50 tips for supporting someone with Alzheimer’s is available from Helping Hands’ website.
