A guide to dementia care: tips for families and caregivers

Supporting a loved one with dementia starts with understanding the subtle changes that can take place with memory, behaviour, and daily routines. Recognising those small, early signs can make a big difference for the road ahead.

Early signs of dementia

Identifying the early signs of dementia can help you plan for the future and access the right support when needed.

While occasional forgetfulness is normal, persistent changes in memory, thinking, and behaviour may signal something more. Here are some common early signs to look out for if you suspect a loved one may be experiencing the onset of dementia:

Memory loss
Forgetting recent events, names, or appointments, often repeating questions or stories without realising.

Difficulty with familiar tasks
Struggling with everyday activities like cooking, managing money, or driving, even if they’ve done them for years.

Confusion with time or place
Losing track of the date, forgetting where they are, or getting lost in once-familiar places.

Mood and personality changes
Becoming unusually anxious, withdrawn, suspicious, or experiencing sudden mood swings.

Poor judgment
Making uncharacteristic decisions, such as mishandling money, neglecting hygiene, or dressing inappropriately for the weather.

If you notice these changes in a loved one, reaching out to a healthcare professional can provide clarity, support, and a plan for moving forward.

The best ways to communicate with someone with dementia

While communication becomes more difficult as dementia progresses, it's still possible to foster meaningful connections with simple adjustments that meet your loved one's needs. With a little patience and a few simple adjustments, you can make conversations easier and more comforting for them. Here are some ways to support understanding and connection:

Use simple language
Speak slowly and keep sentences short and clear. Instead of, “Do you want to go to the grocery store or do something else today?”, try “Would you like to go to the store?”

Be patient and listen
Give your loved one extra time to respond. If they struggle to find words, gently guide them without correcting.

Maintain eye contact
Sitting at eye level and offering a reassuring touch can make conversations feel more personal and calming.

Use visual cues
When words become difficult, gestures, facial expressions, or pictures can help get the message across.

Keep a routine
A familiar daily structure—regular meals, activities, and sleep—can reduce confusion and bring a sense of security.

Stay positive
Encouraging words and celebrating small successes can boost confidence and help your loved one feel valued.

Self care for carers

Being a caregiver for someone with dementia can feel overwhelming, all-consuming at times. It’s natural to prioritise their needs above your own, but it’s important to remember that your wellbeing matters too.

Taking time out and focusing on your own wellbeing can strengthen the support you offer your loved one. Remember, caring for yourself doesn't lessen your dedication as a caregiver. It ensures you can continue to provide the best care. Here are a few simple ways you can practice self care:

Take time out
Even a short walk or few quiet moments can be enough to recharge your mind and body. If you can, schedule regular breaks for yourself through the day. Doing so will help in the long-term, when burnout threatens to bubble over.

Ask for help
You don’t have to do it all on your own. In fact, you shouldn’t. Reach out to friends, family, support services, health professionals, respite care — there are people in your world who can help ensure you get the time you need while ensuring your loved one is cared for.

Look for ways to manage stress
From hobbies that encourage mindfulness—like knitting, yoga, painting, or any other activity that requires you to focus on the present moment—to practices like deep breathing, looking for ways to manage stress is crucial for caregivers. Don’t let stress build up over time. Hunt for ways to relieve the pressure before it builds up.

Prioritise your health
Eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep are some of the best ways to ensure you have a healthy body and mind. Plus, prioritising your health can help you stay strong, both physically and emotionally.

Celebrate often
Even the toughest days will include moments to be celebrated, whether it’s a smile or laugh shared, or a small win that will eventually lead to big progress. Dementia care can be complex, but celebrating any and all victories is a great way to maintain a positive outlook.

Get in touch today

If you or your loved one could benefit from our Overnight Cottage Respite Service in Ipswich, we’d love to hear from you. Call us on 1300 258 322