Looking after someone with dementia at home can feel overwhelming, but the right guidance makes it possible. This complete care support guide explains how to set daily routines, improve home safety, manage emotional well-being, and handle complex needs such as dementia and bowel incontinence. With advice from the Alzheimer’s Society, NHS, and carers’ networks, it provides a clear step-by-step plan for families.
- Why dementia care at home matters
- Daily routine for dementia
- Home safety for dementia
- How to care for someone with dementia at home
- Managing vascular dementia and bowel incontinence
- Emotional well-being and support
- Carers support UK and worldwide
- Step-by-step checklist
Why dementia care at home matters
Dementia affects memory, thinking, and daily living. Many families want their loved one to stay at home because it feels safe and familiar. Home settings reduce stress and allow personal routines. However, carers often face challenges such as tiredness, stress, and a lack of guidance.
According to the Alzheimer’s Society UK, more than 60% of people with dementia live in the community. With the right support, living at home is often possible for longer. Carers play a central role, and their health and well-being are equally important.
How to care for someone with dementia at home
Caring for someone with dementia at home involves patience and planning. Families must balance physical care, emotional support, and medical needs.
Key areas of daily care include:
- Helping with meals and hydration.
- Supporting personal hygiene, such as bathing and dressing.
- Monitoring medication schedules.
- Encouraging light activity to maintain mobility.
- Creating moments of joy with music, photos, or simple games.
Carers should also look after their own well-being. Regular breaks, rest, and outside support prevent burnout.
Daily routine for dementia care at home
A structured daily routine helps people with dementia feel calm. Repetition reduces confusion and creates comfort. Families can design a routine around meals, rest, and activities.
Examples of daily structure:
- Breakfast at the same time each day.
- Light exercise in the morning, such as walking.
- Rest or quiet time in the afternoon.
- Evening calming activities like reading or listening to music.
Regular routines also reduce risks of agitation and “sundowning,” when confusion increases in the evening.
How to manage sundowning in dementia care at home
Sundowning is a common symptom of dementia. It usually happens in the late afternoon or evening. People may become restless, anxious, or confused. At home, this can be stressful for carers and families.
Practical ways to manage sundowning:
- Keep a steady routine: Regular meals and bedtimes reduce confusion.
- Maximise natural light: Open curtains during the day and use bright lighting in the evening.
- Limit naps: Too much daytime sleep can disturb nighttime rest.
- Offer calming activities: Gentle music, reading, or simple conversation helps settle the mind.
- Avoid caffeine and sugar in the afternoon: These can increase restlessness.
- Create a safe space: Keep hallways lit and remove trip hazards if night wandering occurs.
The Alzheimer’s Society UK advises that a calm environment makes a big difference. Sundowning often improves when stress is reduced and daily structure is clear.
Home safety for dementia care
Safety at home is a top priority. Falls, burns, and wandering are common risks. Families can make changes to protect their loved ones.
Practical home safety tips:
- Remove loose rugs and clutter to prevent falls.
- Install grab rails in bathrooms and near stairs.
- Use automatic night lights in hallways.
- Lock away cleaning products and medicines.
- Consider door alarms to alert carers if someone wanders.
The Alzheimer’s Society and NHS guidance recommend regular safety checks. Keeping the home simple and calm reduces stress for both the person and the carer.
Dementia and bowel incontinence care
One of the hardest challenges in dementia care is bowel incontinence. This condition can cause distress for both the person and the carer. It often appears as dementia progresses, when brain changes affect bladder and bowel control.
Practical solutions for bowel incontinence in dementia care:
- Establish regular toilet routines after meals.
- Use clothing with easy fastenings for quick bathroom access.
- Place night-time commodes near the bed.
- Use absorbent pads and waterproof bedding to reduce stress.
- Keep a discreet cleaning kit nearby for accidents.
Doctors may suggest medication or physiotherapy if incontinence is linked to muscle weakness. Support from a continence nurse can also make a big difference. Families should never feel alone in managing these challenges.
Repeating these steps across the day helps maintain dignity and comfort. Remember, dementia and bowel incontinence need patience and gentle reassurance.
Vascular dementia incontinence
Emotional well-being and support
Dementia does not just affect memory. It also changes emotions and behaviour. Many people feel anxious, frustrated, or withdrawn. Families can ease these feelings by creating a calm atmosphere.
Helpful strategies include:
- Playing familiar music to spark positive memories.
- Using photo albums to encourage conversation.
- Allowing space and quiet when stress builds.
- Offering reassurance with a soft voice and gentle touch.
Small moments of connection, such as enjoying tea together, are powerful. Carers must also recognise their own emotions. Stress management, mindfulness, and sharing feelings with support groups are vital.
How can smart technology help look after someone with dementia at home?
Smart technology is becoming a powerful tool in dementia care at home. It supports safety, independence, and peace of mind for families.
Ways smart technology helps:
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Smart home sensors: Motion sensors can alert carers if someone leaves the house at night or enters unsafe areas like the kitchen.
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GPS trackers: Wearable devices help locate a person if they wander, reducing the risk of getting lost.
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Medication reminders: Smart pill boxes or phone apps send alerts to ensure tablets are taken on time.
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Voice assistants: Devices such as Alexa or Google Home can remind you about meals, appointments, or simple tasks.
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Video monitoring: Cameras with consent provide carers with reassurance while giving the person privacy in most spaces.
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Automatic lighting: Lights that turn on when movement is detected reduce falls during the night.
The NHS and Alzheimer’s Society UK recommend exploring assistive technology as part of a wider dementia care plan. These tools cannot replace personal care, but they add a strong layer of safety and support for both the person and the carer.
Carers support UK and worldwide
Caring at home can feel isolating. Yet support networks exist. In the UK, the Alzheimer’s Society, Carers UK, and NHS provide guidance, helplines, and local groups. Respite care offers carers time to rest.
Internationally, organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Association (US) and Dementia Australia provide similar services. Online communities also allow carers to share tips and reduce loneliness.
Seeking help is not a weakness. It is an important part of dementia care at home.
Step-by-step checklist
Looking after someone with dementia at home – quick guide
- Set a daily routine with regular meals and rest.
- Make the home safe by removing risks and adding support aids.
- Use simple reminders for medication and appointments.
- Manage personal care with dignity and patience.
- Plan for challenges like vascular dementia and bowel incontinence.
- Create calm moments with music, photos, and conversation.
- Connect with support groups and health professionals.
- Look after your own health and wellbeing as a carer.
Conclusion
Looking after someone with dementia at home is not easy, but it is possible with planning and support. By setting routines, improving home safety, and understanding emotional needs, families create a more comfortable life. Managing complex issues like vascular dementia and bowel incontinence requires patience, but dignity can always be preserved.
Carers in the UK and worldwide should remember that help is available. Organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Society provide trusted advice and practical guidance. With this knowledge, families can deliver safe, compassionate, and effective dementia care at home.
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