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What does dementia feel like?
It can be hard to imagine what life is like for someone with dementia. Let’s discuss some of the feelings and challenges your loved one may experience, and how compassionate home care support can help make life easier.
What is dementia, and what causes it?
Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder that causes symptoms like memory loss and impaired decision making. Around 900,000 people in the UK live with dementia, and many require help with everyday tasks, such as:
- Personal care
- Medication management
- Meal preparation and cooking
- Mobility care (if needed)
- Emotional support and companionship
- Managing things like hallucinations, “sundowning”, and other issues
- Specialist dementia care to manage complex behaviours like confabulation
Different types of dementia have different underlying causes, but mostly, dementia is thought to be caused by changes in areas of the brain that negatively impact neurons and their connections, and it is most prevalent in those over 65 years old.
What symptoms does dementia cause?
As well as physical symptoms like muscle weakness and mobility issues, there is also a great deal of behavioural change and emotional symptoms to manage, some of which stem from paranoia and delusions. Symptoms depend on the type of dementia, but the most common include:
- Memory loss, such as losing memory of recent events or people’s names
- Communication issues, such as struggling to find the right words
- Impaired decision making and difficulty with judgement and problem-solving
- Mood and personality changes
- Lack of interest in activities they once found enjoyable
- Struggles with daily tasks that used to be easy for them
For those managing symptoms, this can be frustrating, upsetting and cause mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
What does dementia feel like for the person experiencing it?
The experience will feel unique depending on the stage of dementia, but at any stage it can bring up complex emotions. A 2023 study highlighted that those with dementia may experience feelings of disconnection that lead to loneliness, and confusion may cause feelings of exclusion. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, someone with dementia may have less control over their feelings, overreact to stress, or experience lower self-esteem than before.
In addition, a 2021 study suggested dementia impacts identity, so part of dementia care should focus on maintaining their self-esteem as much as possible, which could help them cope with their diagnosis and adjust as it progresses.
Learn more in our guide on how dementia affects you emotionally.
How can we help?
We've helped thousands of families to stay safe, comfortable and happy at home. Whatever situation you're facing, or whatever the question is, Home Instead is here to help.
Are you in need of a little guidance right away?
03300 583450Other non-care-related enquiries
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Home Instead have an experienced caring team that far exceeds in quality anything we experienced from other agencies at this point of service.
Steve, Client
My mum receives excellent care from Home Instead. They are all very caring, friendly, organised and help my mum to feel happy, safe and well cared for in her own home. The carers are very good at communicating with the office and in turn the office are great at communicating any concerns to me as situations arise.
Jane, Client's Family
We have been relying on Home Instead for nearly five years now and they have been wonderfully helpful and flexible throughout. I don’t know what we’d do without them.
Carol, Client
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Get in touch How to manage dementia in a loved one so they feel safe
Supporting a loved one with dementia can be tough for families, but taking certain actions can help to improve their confidence, self-esteem, and sense of safety. For example:
- Encourage them to take part in enjoyable activities they feel comfortable with, such as games, cooking or social activities, to foster their independence
- Find new ways to communicate effectively to maintain your relationship by learning how to talk to someone with dementia
- Make home adaptations to help them feel safer, such as labelling rooms like the bathroom
- Create a calm environment, which studies find could positively influence dementia symptoms
Consider trying various helpful techniques like using dementia-friendly colours, doll therapy, or other tools
Why Home Instead?
A 2017 study on person-centred care in people with dementia found it could help to reduce agitation and depression, while also improving quality of life. At Home Instead, our Care Professionals are trained in person-centred dementia care using a unique programme accredited by City & Guilds, and we are rated 9.6 on Homecare.co.uk. In addition, many of our locations are deemed “outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), so you can rest assured that your loved one is always in safe hands.
“The carers constantly go above and beyond in supporting my sisters and I… with both parents suffering from dementia. Genuinely, they care, and nothing really is too much trouble.”
– Home Instead client (Ilkley, Skipton and Settle) via homecare.co.uk
Advice & Support
FAQs
- What does dementia feel like for someone experiencing it?
Dementia can feel confusing and disorienting, as people with dementia may struggle with memory loss, difficulty finding words, or recognising familiar people and places. It can also lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, or fear as they navigate changes in their cognitive abilities.
- How does dementia affect emotions and behaviour?
Dementia can cause mood swings, irritability, or feelings of sadness and withdrawal. Some people may feel overwhelmed by their inability to communicate or complete tasks, while others may experience heightened emotions or even moments of paranoia or agitation.
- Do people with dementia know they have it?
In the early stages, many people are aware of their memory lapses or cognitive changes, which can lead to feelings of embarrassment or fear. As dementia progresses, this awareness may fade, and they may not fully understand their condition or its impact.
- What can family members do to help someone with dementia?
Family members can help by maintaining a calm and supportive environment, using clear and simple communication, and engaging in activities that their loved one enjoys. Educating themselves about dementia and seeking professional support, such as home care services, can also make a significant difference.
- How can home care support someone with dementia?
Home care provides personalised support to help individuals with dementia feel safe, comfortable, and understood. Care Professionals can assist with daily tasks, create routines to reduce confusion, and provide companionship to ease feelings of isolation or anxiety. They are also trained to manage challenging behaviours with patience and compassion.
Tim Howell , Learning and Development Partner
With a professional background that spans healthcare, aviation, and specialized training, I bring a wealth of experience to the field of dementia care. As a former Registered Nurse with expertise in Emergency and Children’s Medical care, I transitioned to a 20-year career in aviation, serving as a Cabin Director and Base Cabin Crew Manager. In these roles, I led recruitment, training, retention, and leadership initiatives for cabin crew teams across the UK.
For the past 16 years, I have been dedicated to the care sector, progressing from Care Professional to Care Manager, and later assuming roles such as Specialist Training Manager. Currently, as a Learning and Development Partner at Home Instead’s National Office, I develop and review training programs, collaborate with external organizations like the Alzheimer’s Society, and manage various impactful projects.
My passion for dementia care has guided much of my work, from engaging with advanced dementia support initiatives, such as those offered by the End of Life Partnership, to staying informed through events like the annual Dementia Summit. These efforts reflect my deep commitment to enhancing the care and quality of life for individuals living with dementia
For the past 16 years, I have been dedicated to the care sector, progressing from Care Professional to Care Manager, and later assuming roles such as Specialist Training Manager. Currently, as a Learning and Development Partner at Home Instead’s National Office, I develop and review training programs, collaborate with external organizations like the Alzheimer’s Society, and manage various impactful projects.
My passion for dementia care has guided much of my work, from engaging with advanced dementia support initiatives, such as those offered by the End of Life Partnership, to staying informed through events like the annual Dementia Summit. These efforts reflect my deep commitment to enhancing the care and quality of life for individuals living with dementia