Managing Dementia: Helpful Tips for Family Caregivers in East Hertfordshire
Dementia support in East Hertfordshire: practical tips, local services & help for family carers.
Have you ever found yourself wondering how best to support a loved one living with dementia?
If you’re caring for someone living with dementia in East Hertfordshire, you may be wondering how to support them day-to-day while also looking after your own wellbeing. From identifying early signs to understanding care options, every stage of this journey presents new questions. During Dementia Action Week (19–25 May 2025), we’re reminded of the importance of awareness, access to information, and knowing where to turn for support. At Home Instead East Hertfordshire, we’re proud to stand alongside families in our community—offering compassionate, personalised home care and guidance through every step of the dementia journey.
In this blog, you’ll find practical tips, local resources, and supportive services that can make life easier for you and your loved one, whether you’re just beginning your caregiving role or have been on this path for some time.
Dementia Action Week 2025: How Home Instead East Hertfordshire Is Getting Involved
As part of Dementia Action Week 2025, Home Instead East Hertfordshire is taking steps to raise awareness, provide practical help, and support local carers. Our team will be:
- Hosting information sessions and carer drop-ins for families seeking dementia guidance.
- Sharing tips and resources through our website and social media channels.
To find out more about our Dementia Action Week events or how we can support your family, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team in Sawbridgeworth.
Recognising the Early Signs of Dementia
It is not unusual for memory to change slightly as we age, but persistent memory problems should never be dismissed. If you or a loved one is experiencing confusion, difficulty finding the right words, changes in mood, or trouble managing daily tasks, it is important to speak to a GP.
Early diagnosis not only brings clarity but also opens the door to valuable support services across East Hertfordshire. Hertfordshire County Council even offers a voluntary form to record essential personal information, helping police respond quickly should a vulnerable individual go missing.
Personalised Memory Support Across Hertfordshire
Memory Support Hertfordshire provides dedicated assistance funded by Hertfordshire County Council, working in partnership with Age UK, the Alzheimer’s Society, and Carers in Hertfordshire. Services include:
- One-to-one personal support at a chosen location
- Local support groups to connect with others
- Training sessions on living well with dementia
- Admiral Nursing Service for complex situations
Importantly, help is available even without a formal dementia diagnosis, and support extends to carers, friends, and family too. A dedicated helpline offers expert advice to individuals and professionals working to build dementia-friendly communities.
Practical Help at Home
Maintaining independence is often a top priority for people living with dementia. Hertfordshire County Council can arrange tailored at-home support such as assistance with personal care, medication management, and meal preparation.
Supportive technology like discreet alarms and safety sensors, and door sensors help keep people safe at home for longer. An individual assessment will ensure the right support is put in place. Carers can also access their own separate assessments, recognising their vital role and the need for emotional and practical assistance.
Useful Memory Tools and Resources
Support does not end with care visits. There are many tools to make day-to-day life easier and more enriching:
- NHS Resources: Trusted advice and local service listings.
- Hertfordshire Libraries’ Reminiscence Collection: Free access to memory boxes, nostalgic books, DVDs, and games to encourage conversation.
- Playlist for Life: Personalised music playlists designed to trigger memories.
- Health and Wellbeing Apps: Digital tools offering support and stimulation.
- Age UK Lifebook: A simple booklet to record important daily information.
NHS Dementia Services in Hertfordshire
Early Memory Diagnosis and Support Service (EMDASS)
The EMDASS team delivers comprehensive assessments for those experiencing memory difficulties. Made up of psychiatrists, nurses, psychologists, and occupational therapists, the service offers structured support for up to 38 weeks after diagnosis, preparing families for the journey ahead. Access is through a GP referral.
Regional EMDASS contacts include:
- Hemel Hempstead: 01442 275628
- Welwyn Garden City: 01438 792120
- Watford: 01923 837154
- Welwyn Garden City (East): 01707 364012
Speech and Language Therapy
Communication challenges and some people may experience changes in how they eat or drink, including swallowing. Specialist therapy services are available through:
- Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust (East and North) via [email protected]
- Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust (South and West) on 03000 200 656
Therapists work closely with families to preserve communication skills for as long as possible.
Older People’s Mental Health Services
Specialist mental health support for older adults is provided by Hertfordshire Partnership University Trust, including emotional and psychological support tailored to those living with dementia.
Local Charities Offering Dementia Support
Hertswise
Operating Dementia Hubs across towns including Broxbourne and St Albans, Hertswise offers group activities, one-to-one support, and Carer Support Groups both face-to-face and online. Contact Herts Help on 0300 123 4044 for more details.
Alzheimer’s Society Hertfordshire
The Alzheimer’s Society provides emotional support and referral services. They can be contacted on 01707 378365 or by emailing [email protected].
Cogs Clubs
Cogs Clubs offer stimulating activities for people with mild to moderate dementia. Sessions are available in:
- Bourne End (Wednesdays)
- Tring (Tuesdays)
Each session costs £12. Call 01442 259049 to enquire.
The Red Shed Project
This unique project based in Stevenage uses horticulture to support people living with dementia and their carers. Workshops are set in a therapeutic outdoor environment. Email [email protected] for more information.
Hertfordshire Independent Living Service (HILS)
HILS runs Kingfisher Day Clubs at the Jubilee Centre in St Albans, offering daily activities from Monday to Friday at a cost of £35 per session. Contact 0330 2000 103 or email [email protected] to learn more.
Age UK Hertfordshire
The Chalmers Court Day Care Centre in Rickmansworth hosts dementia-friendly activities such as reminiscence games, singing sessions, and gentle exercise. Call 01923 774328 to find out more.
All Sorts Dementia Group
Running in Ware, Sawbridgeworth, and Essendon, this group offers lively activities that help people remain socially connected while giving carers a short break. Contact 01279 970474 or email [email protected].
Dementia Home Care Options in Hertfordshire
At Home Instead East Hertfordshire, we understand that choosing the right dementia care at home is one of the most important decisions a family can make. Our compassionate, relationship-led approach means that every client receives support tailored to their individual needs, preferences, and daily routines—helping them remain safe, independent, and comfortable in the place they know best: home.
Our highly trained Care Professionals support with everything from:
- Personal care and medication assistance
- Daily routines like mealtimes, dressing, and bathing
- Dementia-friendly activities that promote memory and confidence
- Companionship and emotional reassurance for both clients and families
We are proud to be a trusted local provider, serving families in Sawbridgeworth, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertford, Ware, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re just starting to explore care options or looking for additional support, our team is here to help—every step of the way.
📞 To learn more, please contact Home Instead East Hertfordshire today. We’re ready to support you with expert advice, flexibility, and care that truly makes a difference.
Final Thoughts
Living with dementia is a journey that no family should face alone. East Hertfordshire offers a wealth of support, services, and caring communities designed to make everyday life safer, more fulfilling, and as independent as possible.
At Home Instead East Hertfordshire, we are proud to offer specialist dementia home care tailored to the unique needs of each client and their family. Whether you are just starting to seek help or exploring long-term options, compassionate support is always within reach.
If you would like to speak to a member of our team about home care for dementia, please do not hesitate to contact us. Together, we can help you navigate every step of the journey with confidence and care.
Areas We Serve
Sawbridgeworth, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertford & the surrounding areas
CM21 0, CM21 9, CM22 6, CM22 7, CM23 1, CM23 2, CM23 3, CM23 4, CM23 5, CM24 1, CM24 8, CM6 1, EN10 6, EN10 7, EN11 0, EN11 8, EN11 9, SG10 6, SG11 1, SG11 2, SG12 0, SG12 7, SG12 8, SG12 9, SG13 7, SG13 8, SG14 1, SG14 2, SG14 3, SG2 7, SG9 0, SG9 9
Allen House, Business Centre, The Maltings, Station Rd, Sawbridgeworth CM21 9JX, UK
01279 721443