Dementia may change what someone can do, but it doesn't change who they are. Person-centred support means understanding the individual behind the diagnosis and helping them remain involved in their own life.

Living with dementia can bring changes and challenges, but a diagnosis doesn't mean that someone has to stop enjoying their usual routines, relationships, interests or independence. With the right support, people can continue to live meaningful lives at home and remain connected to the people and activities that matter to them.

At Bluebird Care Stevenage & North Herts, we believe good dementia care starts with getting to know the person, not simply their diagnosis.

Supporting someone with dementia at home

Home can provide familiarity, comfort and a sense of security. Remaining in familiar surroundings can help someone living with dementia maintain established routines and stay connected to neighbours, friends and family.

Support at home might include help with:

• Personal care and getting dressed
• Preparing meals and drinks
• Household tasks
• Medication prompts
• Getting out and about
• Attending appointments
• Companionship and social activities

The level of support someone needs can change over time. Regularly reviewing their care helps ensure it continues to reflect their circumstances and preferences.

Most importantly, care should support someone to do things for themselves wherever possible, rather than automatically taking over.

Communicating with someone with dementia

Dementia can affect a person's ability to find words, follow conversations or understand information. This can sometimes lead to frustration or anxiety.

Simple changes in how we communicate can make a significant difference.

Give them time

Don't rush an answer or finish someone's sentence. Allowing extra time can help them find the words they want.

Keep things simple

Use clear, straightforward language and focus on one question or idea at a time.

Listen beyond the words

Someone may communicate their needs through facial expressions, gestures or changes in behaviour as well as speech.

Avoid unnecessary correction

If someone is confused about something, repeatedly correcting them may cause distress. Where appropriate, focus on reassurance rather than proving them wrong.

Offer choices

Simple choices can help someone retain control:

“Would you like tea or coffee?”

rather than:

“What would you like to drink?”

Good communication is about listening, patience and respect.

Providing reassurance when someone is confused

Confusion can be frightening for someone living with dementia and for those supporting them.

If someone becomes distressed or confused, try to understand what might be behind the emotion rather than focusing only on what they are saying.

They might be:

• Tired
• Hungry or thirsty
• In pain or uncomfortable
• Overwhelmed by their surroundings
• Looking for someone familiar
• Trying to communicate an unmet need

A calm voice, familiar face and reassuring approach can help.

Rather than saying:

“There's nothing to worry about.”

try:

“You're safe. I'm here with you.”

Understanding behaviour as a form of communication can help carers respond with empathy rather than frustration.

Encouraging independence and choice

Maintaining independence is an important part of living well with dementia.

It can be tempting to step in and complete tasks because it is quicker or easier. But allowing someone to continue doing what they can for themselves helps maintain confidence, skills and a sense of control.

This could be as simple as:

• Choosing what to wear
• Making a cup of tea
• Preparing part of a meal
• Choosing what to watch
• Deciding when to go for a walk
• Taking part in household activities

The right approach is often “support, don't take over.”

Care should be adapted to the person's abilities, giving them opportunities to participate safely and make their own decisions.

Nutrition and hydration

Eating and drinking can sometimes become more difficult as dementia progresses. Someone may forget to eat, lose interest in food or forget when they last had something to drink.

Helpful strategies can include:

• Keeping regular mealtimes
• Offering familiar favourite foods
• Providing smaller meals or snacks throughout the day
• Making drinks easily accessible
• Offering regular reminders to drink
• Creating a calm environment at mealtimes
• Involving the person in preparing food where possible

Changes in eating or drinking habits should be discussed with appropriate healthcare professionals, particularly if there are concerns about weight loss, dehydration or swallowing.

The importance of familiar routines, activities and music

Familiarity can be comforting for someone living with dementia.

Maintaining established routines can provide structure and reassurance, while meaningful activities can encourage enjoyment, communication and connection.

Activities don't need to be complicated. They could include:

• Listening to favourite music
• Looking through family photographs
• Gardening
• Baking
• Going for a familiar walk
• Puzzles or games
• Reading
• Having a cup of tea and a conversation

Music can be particularly meaningful, helping create opportunities for connection and bringing back familiar memories and emotions.

The most important thing is to focus on what the individual enjoys, rather than what we think they should be doing.

Seeing the person, not the diagnosis

Every person living with dementia has their own history, personality, relationships, preferences and experiences.

That's why person-centred dementia care means asking:

Who is this person?
What matters to them?
What makes them feel safe?
What can they still do independently?
How can we help them continue doing the things they enjoy?

At Bluebird Care Stevenage & North Herts, we take the time to understand the individual and tailor support around their needs, preferences and routines. As those needs change, we adapt the care we provide while continuing to promote dignity, choice and independence.

Looking for dementia care at home?

If you're supporting someone living with dementia and would like to explore how care at home could help, our friendly team is here to listen and answer your questions.

Get in touch with Bluebird Care Stevenage & North Herts to find out more about dementia care at home.

This article provides general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you're concerned about changes in someone's health, eating, drinking, communication or behaviour, speak to their GP or relevant healthcare professional.