Alzheimer’s or Dementia? How to Spot the Signs and Get Support.
You know your parent or loved one. You know how they take their tea, how they remember your childhood stories better than you do, and the little quirks that make them who they are.
So, when something feels different—when memory slips become more frequent, or they seem confused in familiar places—it’s only natural to feel worried. What’s just ageing… and what’s something more?
If you’re based in Richmond upon Thames, this guide will help you make sense of what you’re seeing, where to turn for trusted advice, and how the CQC rated Outstanding care at Home Instead Richmond can support you every step of the way.
What’s the Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer’s?
Let’s break it down in real terms.
- Dementia is a general term used to describe a set of symptoms—memory loss, confusion, difficulty communicating, and changes in mood or behaviour.
- Alzheimer’s disease is a specific type of dementia and the most common. It’s a progressive condition that gradually affects how a person thinks, feels, and interacts.
Think of dementia as a category, and Alzheimer’s as one of the conditions within it.
There are other types of dementia too—vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia—and each presents differently. That’s why it’s so important to understand the signs and speak to a GP early on.
Everyday Signs You Might Notice First
Caring for a parent means you’re tuned in. You pick up on little things others miss. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
- Getting disoriented on a familiar walk—perhaps near Richmond Green or along the Thames Path
- Forgetting words mid-sentence, or struggling to follow conversations in busy cafés like Petersham Nurseries
- Misplacing objects and blaming others
- Missing appointments at places like the Lensbury Club or a long-standing dentist in Kew
- Withdrawing from local hobbies they once loved—gardening at home, U3A talks, or bridge club in East Twickenham
- Mood changes: becoming anxious, suspicious, or easily upset
If you’ve noticed a few of these, trust your instincts.
At Home Instead Richmond, we’ve developed a free Dementia Signs Checklist—a simple, practical tool to help families track early changes. It’s designed to help guide that all-important first conversation with your parent’s GP. (Just ask us for a copy.)
Download it here
What To Do If You’re Concerned
🩺 1. See the GP
This is the first and most important step. Bring along your notes or our checklist, and don’t be afraid to advocate on your parent’s behalf. Richmond GPs can refer directly to local memory assessment services through the NHS.
🧭 2. Explore Local Support Services
Richmond has a wide network of services to support both your parent—and you as their carer:
- Richmond Carers Centre – Support groups, one-to-one advice, and events for carers.
- Alzheimer’s Society Richmond– Hosts a Dementia Café in Barnes and offers local support workers.
- Age UK Richmond – Day centres, befriending services, and carer support across the borough.
- Richmond Wellbeing Service – For emotional support, if you’re finding things tough to manage.
You can also access help via the Hounslow and Richmond Community Healthcare NHS Trust, which runs dementia services locally.
How Home Instead Richmond Can Help
We know the path ahead might feel daunting—but it doesn’t have to be lonely. At Home Instead Richmond, we walk it with you.
Here’s how we support families just like yours:
🧠 Specialist Dementia Care at Home
We’re not just a care provider—we’re a dementia care partner. Our Care Professionals are trained to understand how memory loss affects daily life and relationships. We match clients with carers who truly “click” with them, ensuring comfort and continuity.
✅ Dementia Signs Checklist
Created by our local team in Richmond, this tool helps families track symptoms and navigate conversations with confidence. Ask us for your free copy—it’s simple but powerful.
🌸 Companionship, Routine & Confidence
We do more than help with meals or medication. We build trust, preserve independence, and bring joy into everyday moments. A walk in Terrace Gardens, a coffee in Sheen, or simply reminiscing over family photos—these are the things that make a difference.
🤝 Support for Family Carers
Whether you’re burned out, overwhelmed, or just unsure where to start—we’re here. No judgement. No pressure. Just real help, when and how you need it.
Final Word: You Don’t Need All the Answers—Just a First Step
If you’re feeling unsure, that’s OK. Many families in Richmond are facing this same moment—and there’s support waiting when you’re ready.
Let’s take it one step at a time.
📞 Get in touch with Home Instead Richmond
- Call us on 020 3879 7877
- Request your free dementia signs checklist
- Or book a no-pressure call to talk through what you’re noticing
From Ham to Hampton Wick, Kew to Kingston Bridge—we’re here, beside you.
Because caring for a parent is too important to do alone.
