Everyday care

Health

If you are caring for someone with dementia, it's important to help them remain as fit and healthy as possible - both physically and mentally. The better they feel, the more they can enjoy life, making life more pleasurable for both of you.

Website section: Health matters

Dressing

The way we dress says a lot about who we are. But as dementia progresses people increasingly need more help with dressing. As a carer, if you help the person with dementia to retain their own individual style, you can help them to preserve their identity.

Carers' advice sheet: Dressing

Washing

For most adults, washing is a personal and private activity. When you are helping someone with dementia to wash it's important to be sensitive and tactful, and to respect their dignity.

Carers' advice sheet: Washing and bathing.

Nutrition

Dementia can greatly affect a person's relationship to food and eating. It is important to do what you can to make sure that the person you are caring for enjoys their food and eats a healthy, balanced diet.

Website section: Nutrition

Maintaining quality of life

Each person experiences dementia in their own individual way. However, you can help the person to continue to make the best use of their particular skills and abilities as their condition changes by using encouragement, a reassuring routine and common-sense measures.

Website section: Maintaining quality of life