
When things get challenging or difficult for people with dementia and their families, Admiral Nurses work alongside them, giving the compassionate one-to-one support, expert guidance and practical solutions that can be difficult to find elsewhere.
The Helpline Nurses have put together some advice for families with dementia to manage this challenging time.
Supporting from a distance: If you are supporting someone with dementia who lives on their own, they may have difficulty understanding what has changed in terms of lockdown restrictions. It is important to keep in touch, take time to explain changes and make information available to them in a simple and accessible way.
Routine: Gradually re-introducing parts of your old routine to your lockdown routine and keeping active can provide some comfort, stability and improved mental health and wellbeing. Although your choices may be limited, try to focus on the things you enjoy.
Keep in touch: Draw on support you might have through your friends, family and other networks. Keep in touch with face-to-face services you were accessing prior to the pandemic to find out when they are going to resume services or alternatives to respite support. If your loved one is in a care home, keep in touch with the home to find out if and when you are able to visit.
Post shielding support: If you have been using services set up specifically for shielding or self-isolating individuals, you should keep in touch with your local authority about what services will remain in place and what you need to take responsibility for. Some forms of support – such as priority supermarket delivery slots and some local volunteer schemes – will continue.
Get help and support: While it is important to be aware of coronavirus, it is also important not to forget about other health conditions you might have. If you or the person you care for have not been able to access medical services due to the closure of NHS clinics, it may be time to contact the NHS for an appointment.
If you are struggling with your mental health or have experienced grief or bereavement due to the coronavirus pandemic, allow yourself space to grieve and seek support from your GP if required.
You can also speak to an Admiral Nurse on Dementia UK’s Helpline by contacting 0800 888 6687 or helpline@dementiauk.org.