World Alzheimer’s Day: Support for carers
20 Sep 24
As a carer for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, you may feel anxious, overwhelmed or frustrated about your loved one’s diagnosis – these can all have an impact on your mental wellbeing.
“I’ve realised that this is early days for me and my husband, and I’m worried about what may be in store for us.”
– A carer, whose husband was recently diagnosed with dementia
For World Alzheimer’s Day, we want you to know that these are all common feelings, and that it’s important to ask for help when you need it. You’re not alone, and there is plenty of support and resources available.
What is Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s disease is a physical illness which damages a person’s brain and eventually causes dementia. This can affect memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday tasks.
If someone has Alzheimer’s, they may experience these symptoms:
- Memory loss, such as problems recalling things that happened recently
- Problems concentrating and planning
- Confusion and disorientation – for example, they may lose track of time and not know where they are, even in a familiar place
- Problems with language, such as difficulty finding the right word.
In the later stages of the disease, they may require full-time support with eating, moving and personal care.
Most people with dementia are over 65 years of age, but it can also affect younger people.
I’m worried that me or my loved one might have Alzheimer’s – what do I do?
If your loved one is experiencing difficulties and you have concerns about their memory, the best first port of call is to encourage them to contact their GP.
If the GP has been able to rule out other causes for their symptoms, they'll refer them to a healthcare professional who specialises in diagnosing dementia, such as HPFT’s Mental Health Services for Older People (MHSOP).
HPFT’s Mental Health Services for Older People
HPFT’s MHSOP service offers both community and inpatient care and provides treatment on a personalised care plan.
In particular, we provide the Early Memory Diagnosis and Support Service (EMDASS) – this offers comprehensive assessment and practical support to Hertfordshire residents who are worried they may be suffering from dementia.
As part of our commitment to working with people and families living with Alzheimer's disease, we work in close partnership with external organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Society and Hertfordshire County Council’s Adult Care Services.
Moreover, we are actively involved in the Hertfordshire Dementia Strategy, enabling us to work with our local communities to promote engagement and develop coordinated care pathways.
I’m a carer for someone with Alzheimer’s – where can I find support?
We understand that caring for someone with dementia can be a rewarding experience, but also very challenging – the aim of our service is to enable not only people with dementia, but also carers, to live well.
For example, MHSOP holds carers’ groups for people newly diagnosed with dementia, providing a space to share their experiences and receive professional support and advice:
“Today, I’ve learned not to be so hard on myself and the 3 golden rules when caring for my Nan, who has dementia.
“The best moment for me was hearing others’ stories and knowing your feelings are justified, and that you are not alone.”
– A carer who is supported by the Trust and attends MHSOP’s carers’ group
If you are not being supported by HPFT, there are other organisations who may be able to help:
Help and support with dementia care – Alzheimer’s Society
Help and support for people with dementia – NHS