Guest Blog  Jason Tucker

Dementia is a debilitating illness, and sadly one that currently lacks a positive long-term prognosis. It’s natural that when someone is diagnosed with any of the many forms of dementia that the focus is on their well-being. In the early stages family members may well take on care roles, helping their loved one cope with the condition as far as possible. Many relatives, particularly spouses, will move to being full-time carers. This can be an excellent option, as the familiarity of home and family can make things easier for the person suffering with dementia, at least in the early stages of the disease.

Caring for someone with dementia is an all-consuming job, especially as the person’s condition deteriorates and they become increasingly disorientated and unable to carry out simple tasks. It’s not uncommon for carers to pour everything into their efforts, which is only natural. However, many carers lose sight of their own needs which results in stress, fatigue and burnout, none of which are good for the carer or their relative.

If you’re caring for someone with dementia it’s vital that you ensure your own health and well-being is also looked after. Although it may be difficult you need to make sure that you get some time every day to do something for yourself, something you enjoy that will relax you and allow you to centre yourself. This can be as simple as watching the TV with a cup of coffee for half an hour, or getting outside for a walk and some fresh air.

The non-stop reality of caring for a person with dementia full-time or balancing care with work can mean that meals are skipped, or the pressures and stress can lead to broken sleep. It’s vital that you keep your food intake up, as without proper fuel your body will eventually crash on you and result in illness. Likewise, quality sleep is important for proper physical and mental functioning so try to get as much as possible. If you are struggling to get the sleep you need, either due to stress or because of the sleep patterns of the person you’re caring for, you should talk to your GP immediately.

Aside from these day to day issues, every carer needs to have breaks to recharge, so they can continue giving the standards of care necessary. In these instances it may be necessary to arrange respite care. Often the best option can be to have another relative help, or arrange in home respite care with your local health authority. This ensures that there is continuity for the person suffering from dementia and can minimise distress as changes in environment can be very stressful.

An alternative form of respite care is offered by many care homes, especially those that specialise in nursing care or dementia care. This will involve the person moving into the care home temporarily. Sometimes this can cause distress both when moving to the home and then when returning back to their own home, however it can be a good option as the staff at such homes will be well-equipped to handle the needs of your relative.

Sometimes, even with support and respite care, acting as a carer can become too much. As your loved one’s condition deteriorates their needs will become greater, and this will put more pressure on you. If you become ill or depressed from then you need to talk to health care professionals immediately. Sometimes the best option is moving your relative into a care home permanently. This can be a difficult decision to make, but is often for the best.

Caring is a difficult and emotionally draining job, especially when you are caring for someone close to you, as emotions run high. With proper support strategies it is possible to make it work, but you need to care for yourself as much as for your loved one. This guest post was provided by Hallmark Care Homes, who operate care homes in Cardiff, and in many different locations across the UK