Looking after someone with a dementia diagnosis

Caring for someone with a dementia diagnosis can be difficult and rewarding at the same time. As a carer it is important that you also look after your own health. This is because as time progresses both you and the person with dementia will need support to cope with the symptoms and changes in behaviour.  

Carers assessment

As a carer it’s important that you know that support is available for you and if you haven’t already done so you should contact us for a carers assessment. This is simply a conversation with you that will help us understand the impact that caring is having on your life and what support you may need in your caring role.

Getting peer support

Speaking to people who are facing similar challenges to you can help you make sense of things. Having a network of people you can turn to for advice and support can be very helpful. Richmond Carers Centre provides information, advice and support for carers (aged over 18) and arranges several workshops and information sessions specifically for carers.

There are also several support groups in the borough that can offer information and advice. You will find these listed on the Alzheimer's Society website. The NHS has also produced a practical guide to help support carers.

Further information on local services can be found in the Richmond Dementia directory.

Organisations that offer support

The following organisations offer support for carers looking after someone with a dementia diagnosis.

Dementia Talking Point

Dementia Talking Point is a free helpful online community where anyone who is affected by dementia can receive valuable support. 

Dementia Carers Court

Dementia Carers Count offer free online and in person courses that are delivered by healthcare professionals. The courses can help you build your confidence and develop skills for your caring role as it changes. It’s also an opportunity to share experiences with other carers on how to make your life manageable and maintain your own health and wellbeing.

Dementia UK Admiral Nurses

Dementia UK Admiral Nurses are qualified nurses who specialise in dementia. Their extensive clinical knowledge and experience means they can support people with dementia and those supporting them through the most complex of situation. Support is available through their helpline.

Carer’s Emergency Card Scheme

The Carer’s Emergency Card Scheme is a way of making sure there is emergency cover in place in case something happens to you unexpectedly. It will give you peace of mind to know there is back up if something happens to you and gives you access to an emergency helpline 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Find more information on the Emergency Card.

Using care technology

Technology and smart devices are all around us and, when used safely and correctly, they can make a huge difference to quality of life and daily living. Many people with dementia and their carers find that introducing and using technology as early as possible helps them to get used to it and they can use it for a longer period of time. Technology can help in a variety of ways, such as helping with everyday tasks and activities, improving your safety, and monitoring your own health.

You can also have a chat with our Adult Social Care team to talk through your options as we offer a care technology service called Gloria. In addition, to our Gloria service the team may identify other technology that may suit your needs better in your caring role. Find out more about the different types of technologies available. 

Some technology has been designed to help with problems related to dementia, such as reminder apps and activities. Further information on this is available from the Alzheimer’s Society.

Woodville Day Centre

Woodville Centre is a council run specialist day centre, for adults aged 60 plus who have been diagnosed with moderate to severe dementia. We provide care in a safe, secure, and relaxing environment for people with dementia giving carers a much-needed break and respite from their caring role, as well as emotional support. To join the Woodville Centre, you need to be a Richmond borough resident, been diagnosed with dementia and had your needs assessed by our Adult Social Care team. If you or a member of your family have not been assessed and would like an assessment or for further information please contact us.