Question 1

What is dementia?

Accepted Answer

Dementia is not a single illness, but a group of symptoms that result from damage to the brain. These symptoms often include memory loss, confusion, difficulty with language, and problems with decision-making or thinking clearly.

Question 2

How many types of dementia are there?

Accepted Answer

There are over 100 types of dementia. The most common ones are: Alzheimer’s disease, which is linked with memory loss, confusion, and behavioural changes Vascular dementia, which often follows a stroke or issues with blood flow to the brain Lewy body dementia, which can involve hallucinations, tremors, and sleep disturbances Frontotemporal dementia, which usually affects personality, behaviour, and language skills.

Question 3

What are the early signs of dementia?

Accepted Answer

Dementia symptoms vary from person to person, but common early signs include: Difficulty remembering recent events Getting confused about time or place Struggling to follow conversations Mood swings or changes in personality. If your loved one is showing signs of dementia, it’s important to speak to a GP. Early diagnosis can help you access the right support and plan for future care.

Question 4

What’s the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia?

Accepted Answer

The main difference is that Alzheimer’s is a specific disease that affects the brain, while dementia is a set of symptoms caused by various brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s disease leads to a progressive decline in memory and thinking skills, which results in dementia. It is the most common cause of dementia, but there are other causes as well.

Question 5

Can dementia care be provided at home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, dementia care can be delivered in the comfort of your loved one’s home. Dementia home care offers personalised support that adapts to changing needs, helping maintain familiar routines and independence. Whether through occasional visits or full-time live-in care, dementia care at home provides a flexible and compassionate alternative to residential care, keeping your loved one safe and supported where they feel most comfortable.

Question 6

How much does dementia care cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost of dementia care can vary depending on the type of care needed, such as live-in care or support in a care home. You may be able to pay for care privately, receive support from your local authority, or in some cases, access NHS Continuing Healthcare funding. To determine what support might be available, a financial assessment and a needs assessment are usually required. Explore your options for paying for dementia care.

Question 7

Are live-in carers trained to deal with dementia patients?

Accepted Answer

Elder-approved carers are well equipped to deal with low- to mid-level dementia needs, as well as manage the symptoms that come with the condition. More pronounced needs may, however, require a specialist environment, such as a nursing home.

Question 8

Do live-in carers look after all forms of dementia?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Elder-approved carers are experienced in supporting all types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, Lewy body, and more. They take a personalised approach, learning what works best for each person and providing calm, consistent support throughout the condition’s progression.

Question 9

How can a carer help dementia patients?

Accepted Answer

A carer supports dementia patients by helping them maintain as much independence as possible while providing assistance with daily tasks they find challenging. They encourage continuing with hobbies and activities, adapting these as needed to keep the person engaged and mentally stimulated. Dementia carers assist with practical needs such as managing appointments, medication, cooking, and personal hygiene, ensuring safety and comfort. They also offer companionship, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety. Additionally, carers can connect dementia patients with community resources like cognitive stimulation groups and dementia cafes, which promote wellbeing and social interaction. By providing consistent, personalised care, carers play a vital role in improving quality of life for people living with dementia.

Question 10

When should someone with dementia go into a care home?

Accepted Answer

Moving into a care home is usually considered when a person with dementia can no longer be safely or properly cared for at home. This might happen if they experience frequent falls, have changing health needs after hospital stays, or if their current carer is unable to provide adequate support.

Live-in dementia care

What is dementia care?

When is dementia care needed?

Types of dementia care we offer