Are You Caring for a Loved One with Dementia in Hamilton? Here’s What You Should Know

Dementia is not a single illness but a term covering a group of symptoms that affect memory, reasoning, and daily functioning. The most common cause is Alzheimer’s disease, which progresses over time and affects individuals differently.

Symptoms might include:

• Memory loss
• Confusion and disorientation
• Mood swings and personality changes
• Difficulty with communication
• Wandering or repetitive behaviours

As the disease develops, family members often find themselves stepping into ataking on a consistent support role This shift can be overwhelming, especially without a clear understanding of what to expect or how to cope.

Caring for someone with dementia often means responding to behaviours that can be distressing. These might include aggression, withdrawal, or seeing or hearing things others don’t. Here are four approaches observed among caregivers, each with its own impact:

Gentle Approach

This involves calm tones, emotional validation, soft redirection, and physical comfort like a touch on the shoulder or holding a hand. It’s often effective but demands immense patience.

Persistent Approach

Used with care and compassion, persistence can maintain safety and routines. Repeating simple instructions until a task is done (like brushing teeth or eating) can prevent health risks.

Disengaged Approach

Sometimes stepping away briefly is the safest option, especially to avoid conflict. However, using this too often may result in neglect or feelings of abandonment.

Harsh Approach

Frustration can lead some carers to shout or issue ultimatums. Though sometimes prompting compliance, this usually leads to guilt and emotional strain for both parties.

Long-term caregivers often find that combining patience with practical tools allows for a more manageable and respectful approach.

A calm and secure environment can make a big difference in how someone with dementia experiences their day. Try these practical adjustments:

• Remove trip hazards such as loose rugs or wires
• Install grab bars in bathrooms
• Lock away harmful items like medicines or cleaning products
• Use motion sensors or door alarms to reduce the risk of wandering
• Keep colours and patterns simple to avoid confusion

Maintaining familiarity is equally important—family photos, favourite chairs, and well-loved routines all provide reassurance.

Consistency offers stability. Try setting regular times for:

• Meals
• Personal care
• Medication
• Rest

Incorporate meaningful activities—these don’t need to be complicated. Gentle exercise, music, painting, or simply folding towels can bring comfort and a sense of purpose. Choose activities that match the individual’s current abilities and interests.

Hospice support is often associated with cancer, but it’s also valuable for people in the later stages of dementia. It can be appropriate in the late stages of dementia when comfort and quality of life become the focus.

Hospice support can:

• Help manage pain and agitation
• Offer emotional and spiritual support
• Provide respite for exhausted family caregivers

Seeking hospice doesn’t mean giving up—it means ensuring the best quality of life possible.

Caring for someone with dementia should never be done alone. At Home Instead Hamilton, we offer specialised dementia care tailored to each stage of the condition. Our trained Care Professionals provide support at home, giving family carers a much-needed break and peace of mind.

Additionally, there are excellent resources and support services available:

• Local carer support groups
• NHS Scotland dementia care advice
• Alzheimer Scotland’s helpline and workshops
• Community memory cafés and carer information sessions

If you’re looking for practical help or someone to talk to, we’re here to listen and guide you.

To care for someone else, you must also care for yourself. That might mean:

• Taking short breaks during the day
• Attending a weekly support group
• Practising relaxation techniques
• Making time for walks or hobbies
• Talking to a counsellor or therapist

These aren’t luxuries—they are necessary steps to protect your own wellbeing. A healthy caregiver is better equipped to provide consistent, compassionate care.

Is it safe to restrict movement for someone with dementia?
No. Consider using visual cues or discreet alarms to maintain safety while respecting their dignity.

How can I calm someone who is distressed?
Speak calmly, redirect their attention, provide comfort objects, and avoid confrontation.

What support does someone with Alzheimer’s need?
Daily task assistance, emotional support, safe environments, and structured routines.

How do I plan care for someone with dementia?
Discuss preferences early, set up legal permissions, and plan for evolving care needs.

Is hospice only for cancer patients?
No. Hospice care is available for advanced dementia to provide comfort and support.

For support and dementia care services in Hamilton, contact Home Instead Hamilton atHome Instead South Lanarkshire – Hamilton. Let’s face dementia together, with compassion and confidence.