What support is available for families and friends? 

Our dementia help and advice area is filled with tips from dementia experts within Care UK, including our free guides, One step at a time and Let’s talk about dementia, which answer common questions about this often-misunderstood condition. Our Big Dementia Conversation campaign also provides insight and support around some of the most difficult topics associated with dementia.

Caring for someone living with dementia can be very demanding and have a significant impact on family and friends. From coping with feelings of guilt to grappling with a loved one not recognising you, it’s important that you look after yourself and find support where you can. 

Remember that you’re not alone. Many Care UK care homes host dementia cafés that families and friends can attend to talk about their experiences and learn from others. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.   

Support for dementia carers 

If you’re caring for a loved one with dementia at home, there are many organisations that provide practical day-to-day advice, information about the progression of dementia or simply a listening ear. 

Our One step at a time guide is a good place to start, but we've listed further resources at the bottom of this page where you can find more information on taking care of a loved one with dementia, as well as looking after yourself. We've rounded up five ways you can start taking care of yourself now.

If your loved one needs more support than you can provide, now might be the right time to consider how a care home could help. Read our Do I need care page or search for a care home near you.

How to help someone living with dementia 

To help care for someone living with dementia, it's important to treat them as an individual. At Care UK, we get to know each resident's interests, hobbies, likes and dislikes – we call it person-centred care. 

When we know residents well, we can provide meaningful activities that link to their favourite pastimes and fond memories, which can help them to stay happy and engaged.

We also train colleagues in Namaste care, a type of one-to-one or group care that uses sensory elements like gentle massages, music therapy and calming scents to help people living with advanced dementia to relax and feel pampered.

Read more about how to care for someone with dementia. 

Our survey of relatives found that 71% regretting not knowing more about how their loved one’s dementia could change their behaviours. It’s true that you can expect a number of changes in behaviour following a dementia diagnosis, but behaviours that challenge are not natural or normal symptoms of dementia. They arise when the individual’s needs go unmet.  

By understanding more about dementia, you can take steps to meet your loved one’s needs and keep them calm and happy.

Support for people with dementia 

Creating a care plan 

More information and advice 

Whether you are searching for care and support for yourself or a loved one, there is plenty of advice available for those looking for support. 

Read our free guides for expert advice, or visit the websites below for further reading, forums and hotlines to help following a dementia diagnosis.