Caring for Someone with Dementia in Altrincham, Sale or Wythenshawe? Support for Them – and for You
Support for dementia carers in Altrincham, Sale & Wythenshawe during Dementia Action Week.
If you are caring for someone with dementia in Altrincham, Sale, or Wythenshawe, you may be wondering how best to support your loved one and look after yourself in the process. The answer lies in understanding dementia, adapting your approach, and reaching out for the right kind of support. As Dementia Action Week approaches (19–25 May 2025), it’s the perfect time to explore practical, compassionate ways to manage care at home and to learn more about the resources and reassurance available through organisations like Home Instead. Whether you’re navigating new symptoms, searching for advice, or simply need someone to talk to, help is close to home.
Dementia affects every family differently, but with the right knowledge and approach, day-to-day life can become more manageable and meaningful. In the sections below, you’ll find practical tips for communication, managing common behaviours, supporting daily routines, planning for the future, and caring for yourself as a family carer.
Understanding Dementia and How It Affects Families
Dementia is a condition that gradually affects memory and thinking that slowly impacts memory, communication, reasoning, and behaviour. Daily tasks may become more challenging to manage without support. Changes in mood or behaviour may appear over time, making day-to-day living unpredictable.
Recognising that unusual behaviour is often a response to confusion, fear, or unmet needs can help family carers approach every moment with patience.Every action has meaning; by interpreting this with empathy, you can create a calmer, more reassuring environment.
What’s Happening for Dementia Action Week 2025?
At Home Instead Altrincham, Sale and Wythenshawe, we are proud to stand with families during Dementia Action Week (19–25 May 2025) by promoting dementia-friendly activities and community events across the area. Whether you’re a family carer, a friend, or someone living with dementia, there are plenty of opportunities to connect, learn, and feel supported.
Here are just some of the local initiatives happening in and around our community:
Altrincham
- Alternate Tuesdays, 1:30pm – Sporting Memories at Altrincham Football Club.
More Info | Tel: 0161 928 1045 - 4th Tuesday, 1:00pm – Cuppa & Company by Cyril Flint at Waterstones.
More Info | Tel: 0161 942 9465
Ashton on Mersey
- 2nd Thursday, 12:30–2:30pm – St Martin’s Church Carers Group, St Martin’s Church Hall.
More Info | Tel: 07968 236854
Bowdon
- Wednesdays, 2:30–4:00pm – Vibrant Voices Choir at St Mary’s and Bowdon Parish Centre.
More Info | Tel: 0161 928 3337 / 07903 502833
Email: [email protected]
Broadheath
- Tuesdays, 1:00pm – Talk Care Tuesday at the Home Instead Office (1st Floor).
More Info | Tel: 0161 870 1136
Hale / Hale Barns
- 4th Thursday, 1:30pm – Hale Memory Loss Hub (Age UK Trafford) at All Saints Church.
More Info | Tel: 0161 746 3944
Sale
- 1st Monday, 10:30am – Singing by Heart at the Salvation Army, Ashton Lane.
More Info | Tel: 0161 976 4380 - 1st Wednesday, 10:00am – Age UK Memory Loss Drop-in (by appointment) at Life Centre, Washway Road.
More Info | Tel: 0161 746 3944 - Various Wednesdays, 1:30pm – Accessible Films for All at Waterside Arts Centre.
More Info | Tel: 0161 912 5616 - Thursdays, 2:00pm – Parkinson’s UK Sit Down Yoga at Sale Sports Club (Clarendon Crescent).
More Info | Tel: 07580 256867 - Fridays (term time), 1:00pm – Community Choir at St Paul’s Church Hall.
More Info | Tel: 0161 962 0082 - 4th Thursday, 1:00pm – Cuppa & Company (Cyril Flint) at Starbucks, Sainsbury’s Sale Centre.
More Info | Tel: 0161 942 9465
Timperley
- 1st & 3rd Tuesday, 1:30pm – Parkinson’s UK Exercise Class at Larkhill Centre.
More Info | Tel: 07580 256867 - Thursday, 1:00pm – Musical Memories at Timperley Methodist Church Café.
Tel: 0161 928 0022 - Thursday & 4th Tuesday, 7:00pm – Parkinson’s UK Branch Meetings at Larkhill Centre.
More Info | Tel: 07580 256867
Wythenshawe
- Last Wednesday, 1:30pm – Dementia Café at St Andrew’s Church, Brownley Road.
More Info | Tel: 0161 226 7186 - Tuesdays, 1:30pm – Dementia Friendship and Activity Group at Friends Meeting House.
More Info | Tel: 0161 226 7186
These inclusive, welcoming events offer safe spaces to share experiences, enjoy familiar routines, and build connections. Whether you’re attending a music session, joining a carers’ group, or simply having a cuppa, there’s a chance to feel part of something meaningful.
To find out more or to get involved, pleasecontact our team – we’d love to hear from you!
Effective Communication Strategies for Dementia Care
One of the most significant challenges families face is maintaining communication. As dementia progresses, understanding and being understood becomes harder. Yet strong connections are still possible by adapting how we speak and listen.
Set a Positive Mood
Your body language speaks volumes. A smile, gentle tone of voice, and warm touch can help set a calming atmosphere before a conversation even begins.
Get Their Attention
Minimise distractions. Address your loved one by name, make eye contact, and gently touch their hand or arm to draw focus.
Use Clear, Simple Language
Short sentences and simple words help avoid confusion. Speak slowly and calmly, repeating information when needed without showing frustration.
Ask Straightforward Questions
Rather than open-ended queries, offer simple choices: “Would you like tea or coffee?” rather than “What would you like to drink?”
Listen with Patience
Give time for responses. Watch body language and facial expressions – these often reveal emotions that words cannot.
Break Down Activities Step-by-Step
Offer guidance in small steps, using visual cues when possible to make tasks easier.
Redirect and Reassure
If agitation rises, gently shift the focus to another topic or activity. Always offer comfort and reassurance through words and touch.
Encourage Reminiscence
Talking about long-term memories rather than recent events often brings joy and confidence.
Use Humour Carefully
A shared smile can relieve tension, but humour should never be at the person’s expense.
Managing Common Dementia-Related Behaviours
Challenging behaviours are a natural part of dementia. Learning how to respond thoughtfully can make daily care less stressful.
Wandering
Some people walk off due to confusion, boredom, or searching for familiar places.
- Install discreet locks or visual barriers on doors.
- Arrange regular physical activities to use energy positively.
- Provide identification bracelets in case they wander.
- Inform neighbours and local contacts about the situation.
Incontinence
Maintaining dignity with incontinence is possible:
- Set regular toilet schedules.
- Use clear signage for bathrooms.
- Choose simple clothing that is easy to remove.
- Monitor evening fluid intake.
Agitation
Fear, fatigue, or changes in surroundings often trigger agitation.
- Keep a consistent daily routine.
- Minimise noise and clutter.
- Introduce calming activities like gentle walks or music.
- Speak in a soothing, reassuring way.
Repetitive Speech or Actions
Repetition may indicate anxiety or boredom.
- Offer reassurance through touch and conversation.
- Gently redirect to a favourite activity or snack.
- Avoid highlighting the repetition, which can cause distress.
Suspicion or feelings of mistrust
Suspiciousness and misplaced accusations are not uncommon.
- Validate your loved one’s feelings gently.
- Help them search for missing items without judgement.
- Offer physical reassurance with a hug or hand-holding.
Sleeplessness and Sundowning
Late afternoon restlessness and disturbed sleep are challenging.
- Encourage daytime activity to reduce daytime naps.
- Keep evening routines peaceful with low lighting.
Speak to a healthcare professional if sleep problems worsen.
Supporting Daily Activities with Compassion
Helping your loved one stay involved in daily life can maintain their sense of identity and independence for longer.
Daily Routine
Structure the day with simple routines. Visual prompts, calendars, and clearly labelled spaces make tasks feel less overwhelming.
Activities and Hobbies
Adapt hobbies to current abilities. Listening to music, light gardening, drawing, or gentle walks can still bring pleasure and purpose.
Eating and Nutrition
As dementia progresses, mealtimes can become tricky:
- Create a calm, distraction-free space for meals.
- Offer smaller, more frequent meals if needed.
- Use finger foods if cutlery becomes a challenge.
- Monitor for swallowing issues and seek medical advice if necessary.
Bathing and Personal Hygiene
Bathing can feel invasive for someone with dementia.
- Respect personal preferences: bath or shower, morning or evening.
- Use non-slip mats and install safety rails.
- Offer warm towels and ensure privacy.
Towel baths are a good alternative if full baths become distressing.
Planning Ahead: Thinking About Future Care
Early planning helps ensure your loved one’s wishes are respected and can ease future decision-making.
In-Home Care Support
Professional carers, like those at Home Instead Altrincham, Sale and Wythenshawe, can provide assistance with personal care, activities, and companionship. This support gives family carers valuable time to rest and recharge.
Legal and Financial Planning
Discuss power of attorney, finances, and future healthcare wishes as early as possible. Engaging a solicitor or financial adviser can make the process smoother.
Long-Term Care Options
When home care no longer meets their needs, specialist dementia care homes can offer a supportive environment. Researching these options together early can make any eventual transition gentler.
Caring for the Caregiver: You Matter Too
Caring for someone with dementia can lead to exhaustion, emotional distress, and loneliness. Protecting your own wellbeing is just as important as supporting your loved one.
Build a Support Network
Surround yourself with friends, family, and professionals who can listen and help. You are never alone.
Take Regular Breaks
Taking short breaks is essential, they are necessary. Respite care options are available and can make a real difference to your wellbeing.
Keep Learning
Training workshops and support groups offer practical tips, advice, and connection with others who understand.
Prioritise Your Health
Eat well, exercise, and attend your own medical appointments. Seeking counselling can help manage emotions like sadness or worry that naturally arise during this journey.
Know Where to Find Help
Organisations like the Alzheimer’s Society (0300 222 1122) provide invaluable information, advice, and helplines.
You Are Not Alone
At Home Instead Altrincham, Sale and Wythenshawe, we know that caring for someone with dementia is both demanding and profoundly meaningful. It is a journey filled with love, resilience, and deep connection. With the right knowledge, support, and compassion, families can find strength even in the most challenging moments.
If you would like to learn more about how we can support you and your loved one during Dementia Action Week – and beyond – please contact us. Help is here whenever you need it.
Areas We Serve
Wythenshawe, Woodhouse Park, Benchill, Sharston, Northenden, Moss Nook, Peel Hall, Baguley
Brooklands, Sale, Ashton upon Mersey, Altrincham, Bowdon, Hale, Broadheath, Timperley
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The Parflo Building, Huxley St, Broadheath, Altrincham WA14 5EL, UK
0161 506 8307