January 12, 2023

What support is available to someone with dementia?

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It can be easy to forget that you need care, too, when looking after someone else. Nonetheless, self-care is essential for your emotional and physical wellbeing; carving out some time for yourself will help restore balance in your life and make it easier to manage the daily demands of being a caretaker.

Taking care of someone with dementia can be emotionally exhausting. Feelings such as guilt, sadness, confusion or anger are quite common but it may not always be possible to discuss them openly with a person living with the condition. This can leave you feeling very alone and unsupported on your journey through this experience.

No matter the emotions you are experiencing, it is critical to understand and accept them. If apprehension or despair takes hold of you, don’t hesitate to reach out for help from your doctor who can provide guidance on all available support services.

Carers’ groups

Caring for a loved one can be difficult and isolating, but joining a carers’ support group is an excellent way to connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Not only do these groups provide emotional support from like-minded individuals, but they also offer opportunities such as leisure activities, talks from professionals on relevant topics, trips out of the home environment and general socialising – all providing invaluable respite to those juggling their caring duties alongside daily life.

Online groups

Online communities can offer a wealth of comfort and support, especially if you are unable to leave the house or find yourself in need of another person’s ear when there is no one else around.

Memory cafes

Memory cafes are informal settings where dementia patients and their caregivers can find information, support, and even professional carers who they can talk to privately. It’s the perfect place for those affected by dementia to get connected with necessary resources without any pressure or judgment.

Day centres

If you’re a carer feeling uncertain about day centres, consider the positive effects it may have on both you and your loved one. While some of these facilities cater to mild dementia cases, others offer specialist services tailored specifically for those with memory-related conditions. Having some time away from daily routines can provide endless benefits for everyone involved!

During the initial stages of day care, those living with dementia may find it difficult to adjust. If they appear distressed or discontented at any point, communicate with staff members and potentially consider other centres that could better accommodate their social and cultural preferences. With all the options available, you’re sure to discover an activity-filled environment tailored to your loved one’s needs!

Supporting Independence at Tillson House Care Home

At Tillson House, we believe that maintaining independence is vital to our residents’ well-being, confidence, and happiness. That’s why we encourage and support our residents to do as much as they can for themselves — with a helping hand when needed. Take Kathleen, for example. The other day, she enjoyed a lovely stroll to the local shop with Summer, one of our caring team members. Together, they picked out some delicious treats, ready to settle in and enjoy an evening of soaps. It’s a simple activity — but moments like these bring joy, purpose, and a sense of normality to daily life. Why independence matters at Tillson House? Being able to make choices, go out into the community, and take part in everyday tasks is incredibly important. It fosters a sense of control, boosts self-esteem, and promotes physical and mental well-being. In our care homes, we don’t do for our residents — we do with them. Every resident is encouraged to continue doing the things they love, and to try new experiences, no matter how big or small. How we support independence: Here are just a few of the ways we help our residents stay active, engaged, and independent: 🌼 Personalised support:Everyone is different. We get to know each resident’s abilities, interests, and goals so we can tailor our support to suit them. 🌼 Choice and control:From what to wear, to what to eat, to how to spend their day — our residents are always in the driving seat. 🌼 Encouraging daily living skills:Residents are welcome to take part in cooking, laundry, gardening, shopping, and other activities that give them a sense of achievement and routine. 🌼 Community engagement:Whether it’s popping to the shops, going out for lunch, or visiting local attractions, we actively support residents to get out and about whenever possible. 🌼 Building confidence:Sometimes, a little encouragement goes a long way. We support residents to gradually regain skills and confidence that they may have lost. A home full of life At Tillson House, and across all our homes, we strive to create an environment where residents feel valued, empowered, and at home. We know that promoting independence isn’t about letting go — it’s about walking alongside someone, giving them the confidence to live their best life. So whether it’s a gentle walk to the shop, helping to prepare a favourite meal, or simply choosing how to spend the afternoon, we’re always here to support our residents every step of the way. Because independence doesn’t have to stop at the door of a care home. In fact — with the right support — it can flourish. Follow Tillson House Care Facebook page here to get more updates from them. To learn more about Tillson House Care Home, visit our website here.

Sunshine, Sweet Treats & St George’s Day Fun at Lenthall House!

This week at Lenthall House Care Home, we took full advantage of the glorious sunshine with a delightful afternoon in the garden — and what better way to celebrate St George’s Day than by making classic jam tarts together? Surrounded by blooming flowers and the cheerful buzz of spring, our residents rolled up their sleeves (and their picnic blankets!) for some old-fashioned baking in the fresh air. With strawberry and raspberry jam glistening in the sun, our homemade tarts were just as sweet as the smiles on everyone’s faces. Laughter, light chatter, and the occasional taste-test filled the garden as we enjoyed the warmth on our skin and the joy of creating something together. And yes — some of us even caught a bit of a tan! It was a simple yet wonderful day, reminding us how lovely life’s little pleasures can be — good company, sunshine, and a jam tart or two. To see more pictures, visit Lenthall House Care Home Facebook Page. Visit our Lenthall House website to get more information.

Blooming Memories at Curtis Weston House 🌼

Flower arranging brings joy and cherished memories to our residents. This week at Curtis Weston House in Wigston, we enjoyed a calm and creative afternoon of flower arranging — and for one of our residents, May, it became a truly special moment. As May carefully selected and styled her blooms, she shared with us that she used to arrange flowers for her local church. Surrounded by fresh petals and the gentle support of our staff, the activity seemed to unlock a beautiful memory. Her eyes lit up, and her hands moved with confidence and joy, as if no time had passed. It was a lovely moment for everyone to witness — a quiet reminder of how meaningful activities can reconnect us with who we are and where we’ve been. The final arrangements were as lovely as the smiles they brought. At Curtis Weston House, we cherish these moments that make our house feel like home — filled with warmth, creativity, and the memories that matter most. Follow our Facebook Page Here for more pictures from Curtis Weston House. To know more information about our home, please visit our Website

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