Living with dementia

Here at Bluebird Care South Tyneside we see the impact Dementia has on peoples lives. Dementia is a cruel disease, a disease that does not discriminate, a disease that can cause such distress not only for the person whom has the Dementia but also their loved ones. 

Some people might argue that it's the loved ones who suffer the most, especially as the disease worsens.  The impact it has on their lives, is sometimes described as grieving a death of a loved one, as they are there in person but not in spirit. 

I can only imagine how I would feel if my wife Kelly were to fall foul of this terrible disease, how would I cope with seeing the person whom I love and my life partner, start to drift away from me.

This unfortunately is exactly what has happened or is happening to some of our customers and their families. The toll it takes on the whole family is immense, the constant worry, about whether their loved one is safe, the worry that they might leave the gas on, walk out of the house at night, or hurt themselves is a constant thought flowing through their mind.

If this sounds familiar please don't think you are alone, there is a wide range of help and support out there so you do not have to carry the burden yourself.

There are several dementia charities that can offer excellent advice and support. The leading dementia charity is the Alzheimer’s Society. It’s website contains essential information on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, including how to live well with the diseases and how to find help near you.

Dementia UK is a national charity that aims to improve the quality of life for people with dementia. As well as Admiral Nurses, it provides training for those working with people with dementia, and also runs Uniting Carers, a network for people to access the support they need.

If you are looking after someone with dementia, it’s important that you know how to get help and support for yourself too. The Carers Trust is a good place to start looking for information and advice on how to get help and support, and even a break from caring.

Alzheimer's Research UK carries out Alzheimer’s research but it also answers questions about dementia and dementia research – including how you and your loved ones can get involved. The charity’s information line 0300 111 5 111 (open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) can provide help and guidance.

Here at Bluebird Care South Tyneside we are passionate about providing quality, flexible, and tailor-made care that can assist and compliment the support of a loved one. We work with families and Health Care Professionals to keep people safe within their own home. 

I heard from a customer just the other week from a customer what a difference Bluebird Care South Tyneside had made to their families life:

If you would like more information about how Bluebird Care South Tyneside can help with living with Dementia please contact the office for a chat on 0191 519 4825