Living with dementia

This section looks in detail at lots of aspects of living with dementia – for the person with the diagnosis, and their family and friends too. Staying active and eating well matter greatly and can help a person live well with dementia. Behaviour, learning disability and sensory loss all have an impact.

Emotional impact

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Keeping active and occupied

Keeping active and occupied

Dementia can have an impact on a person's ability to carry out certain activities. Care workers have a role to play in working alongside family carers and friends to bring activity into the daily life of a person with dementia. This sections looks at why activity matters, and activities which may help a person with dementia.

Eating well

Eating well

Eating well is vital to maintain the health, independence and wellbeing of people with dementia. However, for many people with dementia, eating can become challenging as their dementia progresses. Some lose their appetite or the skills needed to use cutlery, others struggle to chew and swallow.

Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities and dementia

Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities

A lack of awareness and knowledge of dementia means black and minority ethnic older people are often diagnosed at a later stage of the disease than other people. As the number of older people from BME groups continues to increase, services must become more attuned to their needs and wishes

behavioural challenges

Behavioural challenges

Supporting a person with dementia can be very rewarding. But situations can arise that are difficult for the person with dementia or those supporting them – or both parties. This can include aggressive behaviour, being repetitive, being withdrawn, refusing help, difficulties using the toilet, and relating to a person with dementia who is living a different ‘reality’ to yours.

learning disabilities and dementia

Learning disabilities and dementia

People with a learning disability are at greater risk of developing dementia as they get older compared to the general population. People with Down's syndrome are at significant risk of developing dementia. Care staff need to be aware of the changing needs of people with a learning disability as they get older. The design of the built environment is important for someone with a learning disability and becomes even more critical if the person develops dementia.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender + and dementia

LGB&T+ and dementia

For lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender + people, living with dementia can be even more challenging than for heterosexual people. Commissioners and providers of care and services must consider the particular needs of LGBT+ people and those who care for them to ensure these individuals receive good care and support..

living with dementia and sensory loss

Sensory loss

Having sight or hearing loss makes things more difficult for the person with dementia, who is already working hard to make sense of the world around them. Regular hearing and sight tests, technological aids, environmental improvements, accessible information and communications can all make a big difference for people with dementia and sensory loss.

Find out more about Dementia