Dementia Advice
Dementia Advice For Unpaid Carers
At Crossroads Home Care, our mission is to ensure that unpaid carers across Sandwell, Birmingham, and Dudley have access to the right support.
Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming, but this guide provides the dementia advice needed to navigate this journey. Whether you are supporting a person with dementia with mild to moderate dementia or someone whose condition progresses, we are here to provide the practical support and emotional support to help both you and your loved one. Access to support helps people live well with dementia.
Our Dementia Support Services
We provide guidance, practical resources, and emotional support to help families navigate dementia with confidence while promoting independence, dignity, and quality of life.
1
Care Plan After Diagnosis
A personalized care plan—which is different from a needs assessment—outlines the support needed after a dementia diagnosis. A care plan should be reviewed at least once a year. You should involve family members, GPs, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the plan is effective. Dementia navigators can provide person-centred support for care planning, and local services can help develop a robust care plan.
2
Getting A Needs Assessment For Everyday Tasks
When you feel you need help and support to manage everyday tasks, request a needs assessment from your local council. An assessment identifies your specific requirements, which may lead to personal care support. A financial assessment (or means test) will then determine funding eligibility. Always bring a friend or family member for support during these meetings.
3
Living In Your Own Home (Dementia Living)
Dementia living is often best supported within familiar surroundings. Many people with mild-to-moderate dementia can live at home. Making simple adjustments—such as removing trip hazards and improving lighting—enhances safety. Installing a personal alarm and creating a safe environment can significantly reduce anxiety.
4
Moving Into A Care Home As Dementia Progresses
As dementia progresses, a nursing home or residential care home may be required. Care homes may be needed as dementia symptoms worsen. Before making this decision, we recommend a trial period to see if the facility meets your loved one’s needs. Ensure a new needs assessment is conducted to prepare for this transition.
5
Practical Help With Everyday Tasks
Simplifying tasks into smaller steps aids those with dementia in understanding activities. Involve the person in decisions whenever possible. Identifying triggers for agitation can help manage behavior, and maintaining consistent routines can significantly reduce confusion.
6
Day Centres And Local Activities
Day centres and memory cafés offer informal support and routine variation. Ask staff about specialist local services to see if they cater specifically to the needs of someone with dementia.
7
Help And Support For Carers
Request a carer’s assessment to see what support is available. Contact Crossroads Home Care support hubs for respite options, and join local carers’ groups to share your own experiences. Taking breaks and accepting help are vital to prevent caregiver burnout.
8
Carer’s Allowance And Benefits
The Carer’s Allowance (£81.90 per week) is the main benefit for eligible caregivers. You can claim Carer’s Allowance even if you don’t live with the person, though note it might reduce certain income-related benefits. You may also be eligible for Attendance Allowance.
9
Managing Money And Legal Issues
Addressing legal issues early is crucial. Secure important financial documents and seek dementia-specific legal advice to ensure you are confident explaining their wishes if they become unable to do so themselves.
10
Health, Personal Care And Incontinence Support
Discuss continence concerns with your GP; there is plenty of help and support available to manage these health conditions with dignity.
11
Sleep, Eating And Behaviour Support
Establishing a daily routine can reduce anxiety and confusion for people with dementia. If behaviour changes persist, contact your GP.
12
End-Of-Life, Palliative Care And Hospital Visits
Discuss advance care preferences early. NHS continuing care may be available for health-related needs. Accessing local palliative support ensures your loved one’s final months are comfortable.
13
Dementia Charities And Where To Turn
Alzheimer’s Society: Runs a Dementia Support Line at 0333 150 3456.
Dementia UK: Operates a helpline for carers and families.
Alzheimer’s Research UK: Provides a helpline at 0300 111 5 111.
Age UK: Offers a free Advice Line at 0800 055 6112.
14
Join Forums, Memory Cafés And Online Groups
Check your local library to borrow free books via the Reading Well scheme. Joining online communities or online forums—including the Alzheimer’s Society’s forum—allows you to connect with other carers 24/7.
15
Dementia Research And Volunteering
Consider signing up for dementia research projects via Join Dementia Research.
16
Local Services And How Crossroads Helps
Crossroads Home Care offers respite care and in-home practical support tailored to people with dementia. Contact us for carer training sessions or to book a one-to-one advice session.
Quick FAQ For Carers
Driving
Seek medical advice early; safety is paramount.
Urgent help
Contact your GP or local out-of-hours service if sudden changes occur.
Respite
Call Crossroads to discuss emergency or planned respite arrangements.
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