Getting the Right Support in Sutton for Dementia and Alzheimer's
If you’re reading this, there’s a possibility you have noticed some changes in your loved one—and you’re not quite sure what they mean. You may have spotted forgetfulness, confusion or mood changes. And while it might be tempting to brush it off as “just getting older,” part of you knows it’s worth paying attention.
Home Instead Sutton are here to breakdown the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s, help you know what signs should you be looking for and most importantly, where can you turn for help here in Sutton.
First Things First: Dementia vs Alzheimer’s—What’s the Difference?
Think of dementia as an umbrella term. It describes a group of symptoms that affect memory, reasoning, language, and everyday functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, but it’s not the only one.
Dementiamay be caused by a range of conditions, including vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and others. Symptoms can vary depending on the type, but most involve:
- Memory loss
- Confusion with time or place
- Struggling with words or following conversations
- Changes in mood, personality, or behaviour
- Trouble with familiar tasks
Alzheimer’s disease develops gradually and worsens over time. It tends to start with short-term memory loss, but as it progresses, it can affect speech, decision-making, and even mobility.
Understanding this difference can help you better advocate for the right diagnosis—and the right support.
What Should You Be Looking Out For?
As a family caregiver, you know your parent better than anyone. Trust your instincts. Here’s a quick guide to help you spot early warning signs:
✅ Possible Signs of Dementia or Alzheimer’s:
- Repeating the same question or story in a short space of time
- Getting lost on familiar routes (even in local Sutton streets)
- Misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps
- Difficulty managing money or following a TV plot
- Withdrawing from hobbies or social events
- Personality shifts—more anxious, irritable, or suspicious
Home Instead Sutton has developed a free signs and symptoms checklist to help you keep track of what you’re noticing. It’s simple, private, and incredibly helpful for those early GP appointments. Please download here:
Download it here
What to Do If You’re Concerned
If these signs are ringing alarm bells, it’s time to take action. The sooner you have a conversation, the more options you’ll have.
📌 1. Book a GP Appointment
Your first port of call should be your parent’s GP. Bring your notes or our checklist along—it can really help paint a clear picture. The GP may suggest:
- Blood tests or scans
- A memory assessment referral
- Signposting to local services
Don’t wait for a “big moment” to act. Early conversations lead to earlier support—and that can make all the difference.
📌 2. Reach Out for Local Help
You don’t need to do this alone. There are brilliant dementia-specific services right here in Sutton:
- Age UK Sutton offers a range of support services including carer advice, dementia-friendly events, and help navigating the system. Visit ageuksutton.org.uk or call 020 8078 0002.
- The Sutton Memory Servicesupports adults experiencing memory problems and offers assessment and treatment plans.
- Sutton Carers Centre is also a vital resource if you’re balancing work, family, and care responsibilities.
These are not just helplines. They’re lifelines.
How Home Instead Sutton Can Help
We understand how overwhelming this can feel—especially when you’re the one holding it all together. That’s where we come in.
At Home Instead Sutton, we specialise in dementia care that’s personal, professional and entirely local. Here’s how we support families like yours:
💜 Tailored Home Visits
Our Care Professionals are trained in dementia care and matched to each client’s personality and needs. We provide consistent care—from companionship to help with meals, medication, and daily routines.
📋 Supportive Tools for Families
We offer a free dementia signs checklist, along with information packs to help you feel more confident, informed, and in control.
🌸 Dementia-Friendly Community Connections
We regularly link up with local dementia cafes, memory walks, and Sutton-based groups to ensure your loved one stays connected and engaged.
🤝 A Local Team That Gets It
We’re not a call centre—we’re your neighbours. Our office is based right here in Sutton, and we work hand-in-hand with local GPs, Age UK, and community services.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone
You might be navigating the early days of a diagnosis or still wondering if something’s even “wrong” at all. Either way, it’s OK to feel unsure. But please know—help is close, and you don’t have to carry the weight alone.
If you’re noticing changes in your parent, trust your instincts and take that first step.
