Messages specifically for carers/families

If you know someone who is worried about their memory, encourage them to visit their GP to discuss their concerns.

The more support you are able to give to someone, the better their life will be, especially in the early years. Attending a ‘Dementia Friends’ session for an hour can help carers understand dementia and how it affects people. These sessions are led by local volunteers with Alzheimer’s Society; details can be found at www.dementiafriends.org.uk

Focus on what the person can do, not what they cannot do. Support them where necessary with little errands or cooking, listen to the person with dementia and find out more about the condition.

When someone is living with dementia, they need:

• reassurance that they are still valued and that their feelings matter;

• freedom from as much external stress as possible; and • activities and stimulation to help them remain alert and motivated for as long as possible.

You may find that dementia changes a person’s personality or behaviour, which you may find out of character, but it is vital to remember that a person with dementia is not being deliberately difficult; often their behaviour is an attempt to communicate something. If you are able to establish what this is, you can resolve their concerns more effectively.

Try to put yourself in their place and understand what they are trying to express and how they may be feeling. For information on dementia services available in Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire go to www.memoryinbeds.org.uk or phone 0300 111 9090.

For services in Luton, contact Dementia Support Luton, organised by Alzheimer’s Society. Call 01582 470910 or email

bedfordshireandluton@alzheimers.org.uk

The lifestyle site for parents and carers of children with additional needs and those who support them.

www.myfamilyourneeds.co.uk

hello@myfamilyourneeds.co.uk • @WeAreMFON • Birth to adulthood • Real life blogs • Directory • Ask the experts • Monthly columnist

Ask questions

Get involved

Join the family