How to support a loved one with dementia

Provide a positive social environment that nurtures connections in the community

People living with dementia can sometimes feel lonely and isolated from their community. “It’s important to establish a routine that keeps your loved one connected with family and friends,” said Dr Fox. “Staying socially connected improves quality of life by providing a sense of belonging and connectedness.”

Centacare has centre respite and social and community hubs throughout South East Queensland that provide safe, supportive and dementia-friendly environment for people to connect with friends and get involved in activities that suit their needs, interests and capacities.

Provide meaningful opportunities, from everyday chores to leisure activities
“With time, dementia will affect a person’s ability to carry out everyday tasks,” said Dr Fox. “Try to support and encourage them to do as much as they can for themselves. This helps the person keep their independence, confidence and self-esteem.”

Take time for yourself
Everyone needs some time out for themselves to stay at their best, especially when caring for someone else. Our friendly and experienced team can come to your place for a couple hours and care for your loved one in the comfort of their own home and routine. Or perhaps they’d enjoy a change of scenery with a regular day out at one of our social and community hubs or an overnight stay at Pechey Place, our respite cottage? Our wide range of flexible, help to care options give you the opportunity to rest and recharge with the knowledge that your loved one feels safe, relaxed and cared for in the same high quality way they are used to.

Funding is available
Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for government funding to help pay for the services and support that you and your loved one needs to live well.