Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of progressive conditions that affect the brain. Each type of dementia stops a person’s brain cells (neurones) working properly in specific areas, affecting their ability to remember, think and speak. Research shows that 1 in 14 people over the age of 65 have dementia, and the condition affects 1 in 6 people over 80.
By 2025, it’s estimated that over one million people in the UK will have a diagnosis of dementia – and almost all of us will know someone living with the condition. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia in the UK and it’s caused by a build-up of proteins in the brain which damage the brain cells’ ability to transmit messages.
- Trouble with memory loss.
- Reduced mental sharpness and quickness.
- A person’s language can change and they can start to use words incorrectly or have trouble speaking.
- Many people become less able to move about unaided.
- Confusion when carrying out daily activities or display a loss of interest.
- Problems managing behaviour or emotions.
- Difficulty in social situations and people can lose interest in relationships and socialising.
- Personalities may change, and some people lose empathy (understanding and compassion).
- A person with dementia may see or hear things that other people do not (hallucinations).
- As dementia affects a person's mental abilities, they may find planning and organising difficult. Maintaining their independence may also become a problem.
- A person with dementia will usually need help from friends or relatives, including help with making decisions.
The symptoms of dementia usually become worse over time. In the late stage of dementia, people will not be able to take care of themselves and may lose their ability to communicate.
How we can support you with dementia care
At Care at Home, we understand the challenges often inherent in supporting someone with dementia and we are committed to providing holistic, high quality, person-centred care and support to both service users and their families.
Our care professionals understand that assisting someone with dementia requires both a practical understanding of their condition and the psychological and emotional journey of both the service user and their loved ones. Dementia training is an integral part of Care at Home’s induction programme which all new team members participate in.
With our person-centred approach, we ensure that we meet the needs of the individual and work in partnership with the families to ensure we can help people to live well with dementia.
Our care professionals
The best care relationships happen when both you and your care professionals are happy. To ensure this, all our staff undergo a rigorous recruitment and training programme before starting with Care at Home and are trained to support older people and their families. We only recruit care professionals who are committed to their work and share our company values.
