Caring for someone you love who has dementia is an act of real devotion – yet it can be tiring, confusing and emotional. These practical tips are designed to make everyday life a little easier for both of you whilst you provide care. Keep what helps, leave what doesn’t, and remember: asking for help is a strength, not a failure.

10 Tips for dementia caregivers

1) Keep days simple and predictable

People with dementia often feel calmer when life follows a familiar rhythm. Aim for regular times for waking, washing, meals, fresh air, rest and bedtime. Build in favourite activities (a short walk, a puzzle, the garden, music). Consistency reduces worry and saves everyone’s energy.

Try this: write a short daily plan and pop it on the fridge. Keep changes small and give a friendly heads-up (“After lunch we’ll phone Sarah, then have tea.”).

2) Use kind, clear communication

Speak slowly, use short sentences, and stick to one idea at a time. Ask simple choices rather than open questions: “Would you like tea or squash?” rather than “What do you want to drink?” If something causes frustration, step back, take a breath, and try again later.

Golden rule: don’t argue the facts – meet the feeling. Acknowledge emotion (“That sounds worrying”) and offer reassurance.

3) Make home safer to prevent falls

Falls can knock confidence, or worse – end in a hospital trip. Small changes help a lot: good lighting, tidy floors, sturdy footwear, handrails where needed, non-slip mats and clear routes to the toilet. Keep commonly used items within easy reach and avoid rushing.

Tip: if walking looks unsteady or you spot new bruises, ask the GP or nurse for a falls check where they will ask your loved one to move around and check their balance. 

You can also self refer for a falls check without having to see a GP – ask the receptionist at your GP surgery about this service in your area, or contact your  integrated care board (ICB). You can also search online for NHS services near you that can help after a fall.

4) Support personal care with dignity

Bathing, dressing and continence can feel sensitive. Go slowly, explain each step, and keep the room warm. Lay clothes out in the order they’re put on. Offer towels and a robe for privacy. If continence becomes tricky, speak to the GP or continence service – there’s practical help.

5) Prioritise food, drink and routine meds

Dehydration and missed meals can lead to confusion and low mood. Offer small, regular drinks and simple, nutritious foods you know they enjoy. Keep mealtimes calm and unhurried. Use a pill organiser if it helps you keep track (ask a pharmacist for advice).

Watch for: sudden confusion, sleepiness or agitation – sometimes signs of an infection. If in doubt, call the GP or 111.

6) Plan for afternoons and evenings (“sundowning”)

Some people become more restless or anxious as daylight fades. Start a gentle wind-down an hour or two before dusk: soft lighting, a warm drink, familiar TV or music, photo albums, or a simple task like folding laundry. Keep evenings low-key and avoid big decisions late in the day.

7) Create a “grab-folder” of key information

Put important details in one place: current medication list and doses, diagnoses, GP details, allergy information, next of kin, advance wishes, and a short “about me” page (routines, dislikes, what calms them). Take it to appointments and share copies with family who help. This is also helpful if emergency services need to be called – the paramedics have all patient information handy. 

8) Invite help and set boundaries early

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Make a short list of tasks others can do: sit with Mum for an hour, pick up a prescription, do a food shop, mow the lawn, change bed linen. When someone says “Let me know if you need anything” give them a specific job and time. It’s okay to say no to extra commitments when you’re at capacity.

9) Prepare for wobbly moments

Have simple backup plans: a quick supper in the freezer, a neighbour who can pop in for 20 minutes, a packed “just-in-case” hospital bag (wash bag, spare clothes, meds list, phone charger). Keep the house keys on a lanyard or hook so they don’t go missing during a rush.

10) Look after yourself without guilt

Build in small daily breathers: a quiet cup of tea, a short walk, a phone chat with a friend, and seek out local carer groups to speak with others who know how you feel. Keep your own GP in the loop. If you’re running on empty, that’s a signal – not a weakness – to bring in extra support, even for a short time.

Common challenges – and practical fixes

Wandering or getting up at night

• Clear pathways to the bathroom, night light on, favourite cardigan nearby.
• Gentle reassurance and a calm tone. Avoid long explanations in the night.

Refusing help with washing or dressing

• Try again later, offer choices (“blue shirt or green?”)
• Keep steps simple and praise small wins.

Agitation during personal care

• Warm the room, lay out items in order, explain each step, keep towels handy.
• If pain is suspected (grimacing, guarding an area), speak to the GP.

Sudden change from normal

• Think infection, dehydration, pain or constipation. Check fluids, temperature, and ring the GP/111 if you’re worried.

A short checklist for help with dementia care 

• Daily routine on the fridge
• Safe lighting, clear floors, non-slip mats
• Favourite activities planned in
• Regular drinks and simple meals
• Medication list and pill organiser
• “Grab-folder” with key info
• Small freezer meals for busy days
• Backup contact who can pop in
• Ten-minute break booked for you

When home support needs to step up 

There will be times when the caring load grows – after a hospital stay, during an infection, or when you simply need a proper rest to keep going. That’s normal. The right help, at the right time, can stop a wobble turning into a crisis and keep your loved one settled at home.

A practical solution: respite care from Mumby’s

If you’re feeling stretched, respite care  gives you breathing space while your loved one stays safe, supported and comfortable at home. With Mumby’s, a carefully matched carer can step in for anything from a few days to several weeks – covering daily routines, mealtimes, personal care, companionship and outings – so you can rest, recover or take that overdue break.

• One-to-one support in familiar surroundings
• Bespoke plan built around your loved one’s routines and preferences
• Flexible dates – covering holidays, emergencies or planned downtime
• Peace of mind for the whole family

You’re doing an incredible job. With the right tips, the right support, and time to recharge, your loved one can stay living in the comfort of the family home. And if you need us, simply call us for a friendly, no obligation conversation about dementia care at home.