Managing Dementia: How Can You Support Your Loved One While Caring for Yourself?

Supporting a loved one with dementia in South Manchester requires compassion, adaptability, and no small amount of strength. The answer to the question so many carers ask—how can I support them while also caring for myself?—lies in balancing emotional connection with practical strategies, while seeking support that respects both your wellbeing and theirs. As Dementia Action Week (19–25 May 2025) approaches, it’s an ideal moment to reflect on the vital role carers play and to explore the help available for those navigating the journey of dementia care at home.

At Home Instead South Manchester, we understand that caregiving is both rewarding and demanding. In this blog, we share thoughtful advice, compassionate approaches, and local resources to help you feel more confident in supporting your loved one—while remembering to look after yourself, too.

Dementia is a progressive condition that affects memory, communication, reasoning, and behaviour. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause, but there are several other types as well. For family caregivers, the evolving nature of dementia brings a continuous need to adapt, adjust, and find new ways to maintain connection and provide support.

Managing care effectively means developing communication skills, responding sensitively to behavioural changes, ensuring safety, and prioritising your own wellbeing along the way.

Changes in behaviour often reflect unmet needs or confusion. Accepting what cannot be changed and making home adaptations can ease distress.

Medical causes like infections or medication side effects should always be ruled out first. Recognising common triggers, such as changes to routine or overstimulation, helps in anticipating challenges. Remember, what works one day may need adjusting the next.

Some common behaviours and tips include:

• Wandering: Encourage regular activity, use discreet door alarms, and inform trusted neighbours.
• Incontinence: Maintain toileting routines, use clear signage, and seek specialist advice.
• Agitation: Stick to familiar routines, limit sugary foods, and offer calming activities.
• Repetitive speech: Reassure gently and distract with enjoyable activities.
• Mistrust or confusion: Respond calmly, help search for “missing” items, and avoid arguing.
• Sundowning: Encourage daytime activity and create a calm evening atmosphere with soft lighting.

Daily structure and a safe home environment can promote confidence:

• Maintain a consistent daily routine.
• Use calendars, clocks, and notes to reinforce memory.
• Provide simple, step-by-step instructions.
• Install handrails, remove trip hazards, and secure dangerous items.
• Ensure rooms are well-lit and clutter-free.
  

Planning ahead provides peace of mind:

• Discuss future care preferences while your loved one can participate.
• Arrange legal documents like powers of attorney.
• Explore and prepare for residential or live-in care options.
  

Caring for someone with dementia demands endless reserves of patience, love, and understanding. By adapting your approach, seeking help when needed, and looking after yourself as well, you can make a profound difference in their life.

This Dementia Action Week, let us stand together and raise awareness across South Manchester. No one should face dementia alone. Support, understanding, and compassionate care are available.

To find out how Home Instead South Manchester can support you and your loved ones, visithomeinstead.co.uk/south-manchester or call us today.