Paul’s story: "Now I’ve taken that first step, it won’t be my last call to the Helpline"

We went to the GP, who initially suspected that Dad had Parkinson’s. He was prescribed some medication but not referred to a specialist at that time. When Mum and Dad moved to Spain, Dad took a downhill turn. He was referred to a neurologist who diagnosed him with vascular dementia. Dad was still having issues walking, so he was then re-referred to a second neurologist who diagnosed him with Lewy body dementia.

Paul’s mum and dad

Caring from a distance

Mum tried her best to care for Dad at home, but he became incontinent and was having accidents all the time. He just wasn’t safe at home anymore. We made the very difficult decision to put him in a care home.

It’s difficult living so far away from Dad and caring from a distance. I try to get out to Spain four times a year and speak to Dad every other day on the phone, but I never know what mood he is going to be in when I call. I also wish I was closer to support my mum, sister and brother-in-law more.

Dad often forgets that I don’t live close by. He sometimes asks me to bring him a bag of chips. I try to joke with him by saying that they will be cold by the time I get there. It’s really difficult to know whether to keep reminding him that I’m not in Spain or to just go along with his version of reality.

I don’t usually show my emotions and I tend to bottle things up, but this time, I knew I needed some support. I researched Dementia UK and came across the Dementia Helpline. I plucked up the courage to send an email and within an hour I was on the phone to a dementia specialist Admiral Nurse, Mark.

Paul and his dad

Calling the Helpline

Speaking to Mark felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. He reassured me that I was doing everything right and that I was doing a good job. Sometimes you just need someone to listen to you: a problem shared really is a problem halved.

As much as you can talk to your friends and family, there is a huge benefit to talking to a dementia specialist. I’ve only spoken to Mark once, but he truly understood what we are going through and how to help. He gave me some practical advice and suggested that I try video-calling Dad. This is something that I’m planning to try.

Mark even spoke to me about my two sons and how they might be dealing with their grandad’s dementia. My youngest son and I have now purchased an old Mini Cooper car and we are doing it up as a kind of therapy project together.

Reading the stories of other people affected by dementia on the Dementia UK website makes me feel less alone, so if sharing my story gives someone else hope, then it’s worth it. I hope it will encourage other people to pick up the phone and call the Helpline if they need support.

Admiral Nurse Mark shares how he supports people on the Dementia Helpline

“I love making a difference, giving people hope, inspiration, ideas and coping strategies, and understanding their needs to help them manage dementia. People are thankful to have a conversation, especially with Covid-19 causing so many families to experience a lack of social contact and connection. It’s so rewarding when callers thank you for helping them.