Early Signs of Dementia & Caring for Someone at Home

What are the early signs of dementia?

Families often tell us they "just had a feeling" something wasn't right. The NHS lists several common early symptoms, including:

• Memory loss, especially for recent things
• Difficulty concentrating
• Finding familiar jobs harder, like paying at the till
• Losing track of a conversation or the right word
• Being confused about the day or where they are
• Mood changes

These creep in slowly and are easy to put down to getting older. But dementia isn't a normal part of ageing, so it's worth taking seriously.

I've noticed the early signs of dementia. What should I do?

Book a GP appointment and go along if you can, with a note of what you've noticed. Memory problems can have other, treatable causes, so a proper check matters. The NHS explains how a dementia diagnosis works.

If you'd like to talk things through first, the Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline from Dementia UK (0800 888 6678) is a good place to start.

How to look after someone with dementia at home

These are the things we see make a real difference when caring for someone with dementia:

• Keep a routine. Meals and bedtimes at roughly the same times.
• Keep faces familiar. Seeing the same carer helps people feel settled, which is why we keep teams small.
• Make home easier. Good lighting, labels on cupboards and clear walkways.
• Keep it simple. One question at a time, with time to answer. The NHS has helpful communication tips.
• Keep doing what they love. A walk along the Fish Quay, the Metro to the coast, or a cuppa at one of our free Thrive Clubs.

Caring for someone with dementia can be hard. Look after yourself too

Many family carers don't ask for help until they're running on empty. You can ask your local council for a free carer's assessment, and respite care can give you a few hours or days to rest, knowing your loved one is with someone they know.

How we can help with dementia care at home

A diagnosis doesn't change who someone is. We start by learning the person's life story: their work, family, interests and routines. All our carers complete dementia awareness training at induction. Read more about our dementia care.

Some families start with companionship a couple of times a week. Others need personal care, medication support or night care. Our carers don't give medical advice, but we'll flag any changes so you can raise them with the GP.

If you're still working out how to look after someone with dementia day to day, we'll talk it through and adjust care as things change. We're rated Good by the Care Quality Commission and cover Newcastle, North and South Tyneside, Gateshead, Ponteland and parts of Northumberland. Wondering about price? See our guide to home care costs in Newcastle.

Talk to us about dementia care

Whether you've just spotted the early signs of dementia or you've been caring for someone with dementia for a while, we're happy to help. Call us on 0191 429 2800 or fill in our Arrange Care form, with no obligation.