Caring for a Loved One with Dementia in Yeovil, Sherborne, or Bridport? Find the Right Support
Dementia care support and local services for families in Yeovil, Sherborne, and Bridport.
If you’re caring for someone with dementia in Yeovil, Sherborne, or Bridport, you might be wondering how best to support them, while also looking after your own wellbeing. From navigating changes in memory and behaviour to balancing everyday care and emotional strain, the journey can be overwhelming. But you are not alone. As part of Dementia Action Week (19–25 May 2025), we’re highlighting the support, services, and advice available right here in our community to help families care with confidence and compassion.
In this blog, we’ll explore local dementia care services, practical tips for daily support, and ways to care for yourself while caring for someone else. Whether you’re new to this role or already navigating the challenges of dementia, the information below is here to guide you.
Dementia Care Services in Somerset: What Families Need to Know
Across Somerset and Sherborne, families searching for dementia support have access to a wide variety of services, from home care agencies and memory cafés to local support groups and creative activities. Each offering is designed with the goal of making everyday life easier, more comfortable, and more meaningful for those living with dementia.
Home Care Options for People with Dementia
Choosing the right home care provider can be one of the most important decisions you make. Thankfully, Somerset is home to many well-respected services that offer dementia-specific support.
Home Instead Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport
At Home Instead Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport, our family-run service is built on a simple belief: older people should be able to stay in their homes, where they feel safest and happiest, for as long as possible. Our experienced Care Professionals provide tailored dementia care, companionship, and practical support, always with kindness, patience, and respect.
Support Beyond Home Care
While professional care plays a crucial role, Dorset also provides an extensive network of community groups, helplines, and activities designed to support individuals with dementia and their carers.
Local Support Groups and Resources
Families in Yeovil, Sherborne, and Bridport can access several excellent services, including:
- Somerset Dementia Wellbeing Service: Dementia resources and support for those living with dementia and their carers.
- Dementia Support Forum (Alzheimer’s Society): Peer-led advice and information sessions.
- Dementia Connect Support Line: Provides expert advice over the phone.
- Goldies sing & smile – Monthly singing group for older adults and those who living with dementia
- Sherborne Memory Cafe: Dedicated memory cafe for People with Dementia and their carers, family and friends on 4th Thursday of every month and Digby hall.
These services help ensure that no family feels isolated or unsupported.
Supporting Family Caregivers
Caring for a loved one with dementia can bring deep joy but also unique challenges. It is important that family caregivers look after their own wellbeing too. Fortunately, Dorset is home to several supportive services aimed specifically at carers.
Carer Support Options
- Dementia Carers Count: Educational courses offering practical tips and coping strategies.
- Somerset Carers: Free support and information for unpaid carers
- Somerset dementia wellbeing service: Resources and community support forum for carers
- Alzheimer’s Society Memory Cafés: Held across Bridport, Sherborne, and Yeovil, providing a safe space to share experiences.
There are also befriending schemes, counselling services, and regular coffee mornings for carers who need a listening ear or a moment of respite.
Practical Tips for Everyday Care
Everyday life with dementia may seem daunting, but small changes can make a big difference. Some helpful strategies include:
- Maintain a regular routine: Familiar daily rhythms can help provide comfort and reduce confusion.
- Use visual aids: Calendars, checklists, and reminder notes can support memory.
- Simplify choices: Offering just two options (such as two meal or clothing choices) can ease decision-making.
- Focus on familiar activities: Encourage hobbies and pastimes the person has always enjoyed.
- Communicate with patience: Allow extra time for conversations and tasks.
- Create a safe environment: Clear walkways, remove trip hazards, and securely store cleaning products and sharp objects.
Above all, approach each day with patience, understanding, and compassion.
Planning for the Future
As dementia progresses, future planning becomes increasingly important. Families are encouraged to start conversations early around:
- Lasting Power of Attorney: To make sure that legal and financial matters are properly managed.
- Care funding: Discuss options early with local advisors to help avoid financial stress later.
- Advance care preferences: Setting out wishes for future healthcare can provide clarity and peace of mind.
Organisations like Age Uk and the Alzheimer’s Society provide clear advice and can help families navigate this sometimes difficult process.
Finding Help in Your Community
There are many local and online resources that can help families find the right support easily. Platforms such as #HelpAndKindness offer comprehensive directories of dementia care providers, support groups, memory cafés, and mental health services across Somerset. Search filters by location and care needs make it easy to find the right match.
Local community organisations throughout Yeovil, Sherborne, Bridport, and nearby towns offer practical advice, emotional support, and opportunities for connection. No one should feel they have to face dementia alone.
Final Thoughts
Living with dementia can be challenging, but with the right support, individuals and their families can continue to enjoy meaningful, fulfilling lives. Across Yeovil, Sherborne, Bridport, and beyond, there are many compassionate and caring services ready to help.
At Home Instead Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport, we are proud to stand with our community — not just during Dementia Action Week, but every day. Whether you need a helping hand at home, advice on planning for the future, or simply someone to talk to, we are here for you.
You do not have to do this on your own. Reach out today and discover how Home Instead can help you and your loved one navigate the dementia journey with kindness, respect, and support.
Areas we cover
Yeovil, Bridport, Sherborne, Crewkerne, Weston, Martock, Somerton, Langport, Eastfield, Castle Cary, Bruton, South Petherton, Beaminster, Milborne Port and surrounding areas.
DT6 3, TA18 7, TA12 6, BA22 9, TA14 6, DT6 6, TA11 7, TA11 6, BA21 3, DT9 6, DT6 5, TA10 0, BA22 8, BA7 7, DT9 5, DT6 4, DT2 0, BA21 4, TA17 8, DT8 3, BA22 7, TA10 9, TA13 5, BA10 0, BA9 8, TA15 6, DT9 3, BA20 2, BA21 5, BA20 1, TA16 5, DT9 4, TA18 8
Office Address: Somerset Yeovil Innovation Centre, Barracks Close,
Copse Road, Yeovil,
Somerset – BA22 8RN
Phone: 01935 577030