The Hidden Cost of Dementia Care: What No One Talks About
When a loved one receives a diagnosis, families naturally prepare for the cognitive changes. They buy the sticky notes, they secure the kitchen, and they brace for the memory loss. What they are rarely prepared for, however, is the “everything else.” Beyond the medical appointments and the pill organizers lies a complex web of hidden […]
Why Arguing Doesn’t Work in Dementia — And What to Do Instead
One of the most common and exhausting experiences families describe to us at Dementia Support Works sounds like this: “We keep correcting him, but he won’t listen,” or “She insists something happened that didn’t, and we can’t get her to see the truth.” The natural human instinct is to explain, reason, and correct. We want […]
When It’s No Longer Safe at Home: How to Recognize the Turning Point
Few decisions feel heavier than the one involving where a loved one with dementia should live. In the early stages, “home” is a sanctuary—a place of familiarity and comfort. Many families carry the weight of a long-standing promise: “We promised we’d keep Dad at home,” or “Mom would never want to live anywhere else.” For […]
Addressing Sleep Issues in Someone with Dementia
Sleep disturbances are common in dementia and can significantly affect the safety, well-being, and daily functioning of both the person living with dementia and their caregivers. While there are no simple solutions or absolute fixes, there are many strategies that can improve sleep quality, reduce nighttime confusion, and promote a more peaceful routine. This guide […]
Addressing Hypersexuality in Someone With Dementia
Hypersexuality—also called sexually disinhibited behavior—can be one of the most distressing and confusing symptoms for families. It may include inappropriate touching, sexual comments, undressing, exposing oneself, or seeking sexual contact in unsafe or inappropriate settings. While the behavior can feel personal, intentional, or embarrassing, it is important to remember that this is a brain-based symptom, […]
A Paired Perspective: When Dementia Is First Diagnosed
Two voices. One moment. Shared humanity. A dementia diagnosis doesn’t affect just one person—it reshapes an entire relationship. This paired blog series shares two perspectives from the same moment in time: the person receiving the diagnosis and the care partner standing beside them. Together, they offer insight into what both are feeling, needing, and hoping […]
Managing Guilt When Caring for a Loved One With Dementia
Guilt is one of the most common—and least talked about—emotions in dementia caregiving. It can show up quietly or feel overwhelming, and it often lingers even when you’re doing everything you can. If you feel guilty while caring for someone with dementia, you are not alone—and you are not doing anything wrong. Why Guilt Is […]
Managing Family Gatherings When Dementia Is Part of the Family
Family gatherings are meant to be joyful, but when someone you love is living with dementia, these events can also bring stress, worry, and emotional exhaustion. Holidays, birthdays, and reunions often look different than they used to—and that’s okay. With thoughtful planning and realistic expectations, gatherings can still feel meaningful and connected. Set Expectations Before […]
Dementia and the Senses: A Caregiver’s Quick Guide
When we think of dementia, memory loss usually comes to mind first. But dementia also changes how a person experiences the world through their senses. Understanding these changes can make daily life safer and calmer for your loved one. �� Vision & Perception Even with healthy eyes, the brain may not process what it sees […]