Getting to know Admiral Nurse Kerry Lyons

Tell us about your background

I have worked for Dementia UK for five years and have been Consultant Admiral Nurse for Frailty and Physical Health for the past two years. Before this, I worked as a Consultant Admiral Nurse for Acute Care, supporting Admiral Nurses in hospital environments, and prior to this, as an Admiral Nurse in a hospital.

I have been a qualified nurse for 29 years. In that time, I have supported many families living with dementia. I have seen the struggles and challenges that families often face in trying to get the right information, care and support, at the right time. I wanted to be in a role where I could make these situations better for families living with dementia.

Why did you decide to work with people living with dementia?

I have first-hand experience of supporting a loved one with dementia, so I absolutely recognise the value of having access to an Admiral Nurse: specialist dementia nurses who give expert practical, clinical and emotional support to families living with dementia.

What do you love about your job?

I feel incredibly privileged to be a Consultant Admiral Nurse for Frailty and Physical Health, supporting families living with frailty and dementia. My aim is to help these families understand frailty and dementia and develop strategies to cope with the changes that they may face, now and in the future. This is especially important as it can be a real struggle for people to find the support they need locally.

I also:

• act as an ambassador for Dementia UK in raising awareness of frailty and dementia
• improve resources to share with families and professionals
• help drive policy changes
• support other health and social care professionals to develop their knowledge

What is frailty?

Frailty is a long-term condition related to the ageing process in which multiple body systems gradually lose their inbuilt reserves. It is estimated that around 50% of people over the age of 85 are living with some degree of frailty, and some people experience frailty earlier in life.

Why do we need Consultant Admiral Nurses for Frailty and Physical Health?

People living with frailty are less able to adapt to stress factors such as illness; injury; or changes in their environment, personal or social circumstances. These changes are likely to impact their physical and mental health and lead to a loss of independence.

Frailty often goes unidentified, meaning people miss out on the right treatment and support. My role is to increase awareness of frailty and dementia so families can get the appropriate support.

Families are referred to the service through Dementia UK’s Helpline or a virtual clinic appointment.

What advice would you give to families affected by dementia and frailty?

Families living with frailty and dementia may face many challenges. You may be overwhelmed and feel like you’re on your own. I would always advise you to ask for help – and keep pushing for the support you need.

Families always tell me how important it is to meet other people in the same situation, whether that’s through local groups or online support.

Many people who have a family member with dementia find themselves in the role of full-time or part-time carer. When you are looking after someone around the clock, you might find it difficult to think about your own needs, so try to get enough rest and still take part in the activities you enjoy. Your ability to continue caring for the person with dementia may be affected if you neglect your own health and wellbeing.

Remind yourself what a great job you are doing within your caring role and always be kind to yourself. Reach out early for any support you feel you need, now or in the future. By looking after yourself first, both physically and psychologically, you’re more likely to have the strength to look after the person you care for.