Advice on how to live well with dementia

A diagnosis of dementia can feel overwhelming. 

I’m worried that it will get worse, and I won’t be able to remember any of my family and friends.

As a home care service that supports people to live well in their own homes, we are faced with this scenario regularly. A diagnosis of dementia can be life-changing and difficult to process. At Bluebird Care Wakefield and Kirklees, we strive to work towards ensuring our customers that are living with dementia can continue to live a meaningful and fulfilling life through our daily interactions with them. By supporting our customers to remain independent and in control, we can alleviate some of the emotional turmoil that comes with dementia.

One of our most important reminders to our customers and their families is that a diagnoses of dementia doesn't have to be the end of the wonderful person they love so much. We actively encourage them to keep a photo book of memories as we want families to be reminded that there is more to a person than their dementia.

It’s the way you talk to us, not what you say, that we remember.

Christine Bryden, 46

It is very important to remember; it isn't your fault.

Symptoms

Although dementia itself isn't a disease, but is caused by diseases such as Alzheimer's, there are some symptoms that are commonly associated with dementia.

• Memory loss
• Mood changes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Confusion

If you think that yourself or a loved one might be displaying some or all of these symptoms, it's important that you seek advice from a GP.

Companionship Care

Companionship Care can significantly boost a person's quality of life. At Bluebird Care, we give customers the opportunity to keep up with their day-to-day activities from supporting them with their weekly shop to meeting up with their friends, or going for a stroll. Sometimes even just relaxing in your home with a friendly face can make our customers feel more independent.

For customers living with dementia, companionship care can make a huge difference, especially for those who may not have family and friends nearby.

Dementia Care

Due to the confusion, irritability, and similar difficulties that come with dementia, it's most beneficial for a person with dementia to be cared for in their own home. This option is far less disorienting for a dementia patient than a move to an assisted living facility, a memory care unit or a nursing home. This is because the familiarity of home offers peace, comfort, and security – all things that are important for a person with dementia to have in order for them to stay connected to their normal lives and routines.

We are an experienced provider of care for people living with dementia, and our Care Experts are trained in the best ways to care for a person with a dementia diagnosis.