Dementia Care at Home: What Are the Options?
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Dementia Care at Home: What Are the Options?
For many families, remaining at home for as long as possible is a priority — emotionally, socially, and practically. Dementia care at home can range from daily visits to continuous 24-hour support. The right level depends on mobility, behaviour, medical needs, night-time safety, and available family support.
High-quality dementia care at home should include:
- Dementia-trained carers who understand communication and behaviour changes
- Clear routines to reduce anxiety and confusion
- Proactive risk management (falls, medication, wandering)
- Emotional support for both the person and their family
- Ongoing reassessment as needs evolve
Mini case study: Mrs A initially had two daily support visits for personal care. Over six months, increasing night-time restlessness and wandering prompted a shift to 24-hour home support, preventing falls and easing family anxiety.
If you are exploring higher levels of support, our 24-Hour & Nurse-Led Care hub may also help.
How do I know when to increase dementia care at home?
One of the hardest decisions families face is knowing when to increase support. Many wait longer than they should, often due to guilt, fear of change, or hope things will stabilise.
Common signs that dementia care may need to increase:
- Night-time confusion, wandering, or disturbed sleep
- Increased falls or accidents
- Difficulty managing eating, washing, or medication
- Heightened anxiety, agitation, or withdrawal
- Physical or emotional burnout within the family
Early support almost always leads to better outcomes, for both the person with dementia and their family. Early conversations allow care to scale calmly, rather than being introduced under pressure after a fall, infection, or hospital admission.
Common mistakes families make when choosing dementia care
Is it too early to arrange dementia care?
Families often worry they are “overreacting.” In reality, early support prevents crises and allows smoother transitions.
Should we wait until things get worse?
Waiting often limits options. Care arranged under pressure is rarely the best care.
Is all dementia care the same?
No. Dementia-specific training, continuity of carers, and clinical oversight make a significant difference.
Can dementia care adapt as needs change?
Yes, good care should evolve alongside the condition, not remain static.
What role does nurse-led support play in dementia care?
As dementia progresses, families may benefit from professional oversight alongside day-to-day care. Nurse-led dementia support can help with:
- Medication management and administration
- Monitoring changes in health or behaviour
- Coordinating with GPs and specialists
- Supporting families through complex decisions
Case study: Mrs R’s nurse-led support team noticed subtle changes in her blood pressure and sleep patterns. Early intervention prevented a hospital admission and allowed her to remain at home safely.
Explore 24-Hour & Nurse-Led Care guidance to understand when this level of support can help.
How can families decide what is right for them?
- Observe daily routines and note areas of stress or risk
- Seek professional assessment early, rather than waiting for a crisis
- Ask about continuity of care and personalised routines
- Consider both emotional and clinical support needs
Combining home visits with nurse oversight can ensure safety without unnecessary loss of independence.
Talk to a dementia care specialist
If you are thinking about increasing support, we can help you understand your options calmly and clearly.