Is There Any Support Available For Dementia Carers at Home?

Caring for a loved one living with dementia at home can feel overwhelming and isolating, yet you are far from alone in this journey. Thousands of families across the UK face similar difficulties daily, and thankfully, there is a wealth of support available to help you navigate this path with greater confidence and wellbeing.

This article explores the range of support services, financial assistance, and practical help available to dementia carers, from professional care assistance to respite options that can make a meaningful difference to both your life and that of your loved one.

What Types of Professional Support Can I Access?

Dementia UK is a charity that provides Admiral Nurses for families affected by dementia. These specialist nurses offer expert guidance and emotional support tailored specifically to dementia care difficulties.. Beyond Admiral Nurses, you have access to a comprehensive network of healthcare professionals who understand the complexities of dementia care.

Your GP should be your first port of call when seeking support. It's also important to let your GP know that you are a carer as this can be useful in accessing support. They can refer you to memory services, community mental health nurses, and dementia nurse specialists who provide ongoing guidance and practical assistance.

How Can I Get Additional Help at Home?

The decision to seek additional help at home is often difficult, but it can significantly improve quality of life for both you and your loved one. But while you might feel that you are 'failing' as a carer, giving up or letting the person down, home care and support can benefit both you and the person you care for.

Professional Home Care Services

Professional carers can provide invaluable support with daily tasks such as personal care, meal preparation, medication management, and companionship. Paid carers often have training and skills for handling difficult caring tasks.

When selecting a care agency, ensure they are regulated by the Care Quality Commission and have experience with dementia care. Ensure the care agency is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (England), the Care Inspectorate (Wales), the Regulation and Quality Commission Improvement Authority (Northern Ireland) or the Care Inspectorate (Scotland).

Family and Friend Support

Sometimes the most accessible support comes from your existing network. If the person living with dementia wants to stay at home, a friend or family member could stay with them while you take a break. People who know them may be familiar with their routine, which can be reassuring.

What Financial Support Is Available?

Carer's Allowance is a benefit for people who spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone with an illness or disability – which often includes caring for someone living with dementia. This weekly benefit provides crucial financial recognition of your caring role.

To qualify, the person you care for must receive certain benefits such as Personal Independence Payment or Attendance Allowance. The person you care for may be entitled to Personal Independence Payment or Attendance Allowance, depending on their age and whether they have care or mobility needs. They can choose to use this money to help pay for any additional support they require or cover expenses you may incur as a carer.

Should I Consider Respite Care?

Respite care is essential for maintaining your wellbeing and ability to continue caring effectively. It's important to take a break from caring if you need one – it doesn't mean you're letting down the person you look after, and could help you care for them better.

Some care homes such as at KYNs offer opportunities for people living with dementia to stay for a short period of time. This is sometimes known as 'short-break care' or 'residential respite'. This can work well if you are going on holiday as it can give you peace of mind that the person is safe.

Where Can I Find Emotional Support?

The emotional toll of dementia caring cannot be understated, and seeking support for your own wellbeing is crucial.

Support Groups

Carers' groups can be a good way to get support from other carers who understand what you're going through and can share their own experiences. Most groups meet regularly and may include talks from speakers, leisure activities, trips and some time to just sit and chat.

Memory Cafés

Memory cafes offer information and support in an informal setting where people with dementia and their carers can attend together. There are often professional carers available for you to talk to in confidence. These welcoming environments provide opportunities for both you and your loved one to socialise and gain practical advice in a supportive atmosphere.

How Do I Access These Support Services?

Getting started with accessing support may seem daunting, but the process is more straightforward than you might expect. Begin by contacting your local council's social services department to request both a carer's assessment and a needs assessment for the person living with dementia.

Many areas also have specialist dementia advisers who can guide you through available services and help with benefit applications. Don't wait until you feel overwhelmed to seek help - asking for help when you need it, or before you think you need it, may make it easier to go on caring for longer. Early intervention often provides better outcomes and more options.

At KYN, we understand the difficulties of dementia care and the importance of supporting both residents and their families. Our luxury care homes across London are designed to complement home care when additional support becomes necessary. If you'd like to explore how KYN can support your family's journey, contact us today.