Daily living

People with dementia often experience problems with eating and drinking, but there are ways to help manage these.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a type of infection common among older people. If a person with a memory impairment or dementia has a UTI, this can cause sudden and severe confusion known as ‘delirium’.

Delirium is a common, serious but often treatable condition that starts suddenly in someone who is unwell. It’s much more common in older people, especially those with dementia.

Read our guide to toilet problems and incontinence, including causes, solutions and how this might affect a person with dementia.

Find out why washing and dressing can become difficult for people with dementia, and get practical tips to help with washing, bathing, dressing and personal grooming.

When a person is living with dementia, their sexual behaviour, needs and desires may change. As their partner, yours may too. Your sex life may have changed,  and you might need advice on how to cope with this, as well as how to feel better. Talking about sex and intimacy can help. 

Find out more about the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and get advice on how to approach decision-making for someone with dementia.

If you are LGBTQ+ and have dementia, these pages are for you. They have information and advice about how to live well with dementia.

Leading a physically active lifestyle can have a significant impact on the wellbeing of people with dementia.

For someone with dementia, it's important to remain as fit and healthy as possible. The better they feel, the better life will be for them and those around them.

With smoking and alcohol, it's important to balance the person with dementia's right to enjoy a pleasurable activity against the risk it may pose.

This information describes some of the dental problems that people with dementia may face at different stages and methods for treatment and prevention, including maintaining good oral health and wearing dentures.

Pressure ulcers - also called pressure sores or bedsores - can develop if someone spends too long sitting or lying in one position. They are a particular risk for people with dementia.

Dementia will affect many areas of your life, including your relationships. However, there are ways to prepare for and adapt to these changes. Talk to people about your diagnosis when you’re ready. Be honest and let them know how you’re feeling.