How to take care of a person with dementia

Caring for a person with dementia, especially someone close to you, is one of the most personal, emotional, and time-sensitive responsibilities you can take on. Whether it’s the early stages of memory loss or the more complex middle stages, families often find themselves asking: How can I give them the best support without giving up everything else in my life?

If you’re based in Melbourne and looking for reliable, premium dementia support services at home, you’re not alone. Many carers, especially those balancing high-pressure jobs and family responsibilities, are seeking premium private dementia care to ensure their loved ones are safe, cared for, and treated with dignity.

This guide is here to help. You’ll find practical strategies, insights into support options, and clear information on how to care for a person with dementia in a way that balances both what the person needs and your own peace of mind.

Understanding dementia and its progression

Dementia isn’t one single condition; it refers to a range of symptoms caused by disorders that affect the brain. The most well-known is Alzheimer’s disease, but there are others, too. What they all have in common is a gradual decline in memory, reasoning, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday tasks.

As dementia progresses, the care required changes. In the early stages, your loved one may just need gentle reminders or help with complex decisions. In the middle stages, the support often grows to include personal care, safety monitoring, emotional support, and help with regular daily activities.

That’s why many carers turn to private dementia care providers in Melbourne, such as Acquaint, especially when they want consistent, qualified help at home, rather than relying on unfamiliar or rotating support workers through the public system.

What it’s like to care for a person with dementia

If you’ve taken on a caring role, you already know how demanding it can be. Many carers feel guilty for not being able to “do it all,” particularly when they also have work commitments, children, or other family members to care for.

You may be helping your parent with personal and intimate care, such as bathing, dressing, managing incontinence pads, or coordinating meal planning and household running. Add in regular breaks, appointments with health professionals, and managing safety concerns, and the role becomes all-consuming.

And here’s the truth: you shouldn’t have to do it alone.

Why private dementia care might be the right fit

Many carers in Melbourne are seeking a premium, flexible care solution, one that delivers consistent support and allows their loved one to stay in their own home. That’s where private dementia care services come in.

Private care allows you to:

• Choose carers who suit your parent’s personality and needs
• Avoid the stress of a new person every time
• Receive feedback and updates about your loved one’s wellbeing
• Get help with daily routine, medication, personal hygiene, and more
• Provide high-quality care without placing all the pressure on yourself

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, a tailored service can make your life easier, help you feel confident, and allow your parent to maintain friendships, go for a daily walk, and even enjoy creative activities they once loved.

Essential support services for dementia care at home

Dementia care includes emotional support, meaningful connections, and a structured day makes a world of difference.

Here are some of the support services you should consider:

1. Personal care support for dementia

Trained carers can assist with personal care like bathing, grooming, dressing, and personal hygiene, always with respect and sensitivity.

2. Practical assistance

This includes help with meal planning, everyday tasks, transportation to appointments, and maintaining the household running smoothly.

3. Companionship and emotional support

Regular social interaction helps reduce confusion, loneliness, and agitation. Carers trained in dementia support know how to maintain eye contact, read facial expressions and body language, and use simple words to help the person feel safe and heard.

4. Respite care

Need a short break? Respite care allows you to take time for yourself while knowing your loved one is in safe hands.

5. Overnight and 24 hour care

If your parent wakes often, feels confused, or needs assistance through the night, round-the-clock care may be worth exploring.

Put the right support in place

Acquaint is Melbourne’s premium private aged care provider, specialising in discreet, one-to-one dementia support at home. We design care around your parent and your family, with the same trusted carers, clear communication, and flexible hours that fit your routine.

• Dedicated care team matched to your loved one
• Consistent scheduling and continuity of care
• Personal and clinical care, medication prompts, daily routines
• Meaningful companionship and cognitive engagement
• Flexible options from a few hours to 24/7 cover
• Regular family updates and peace of mind
• We work with self-managed Home Care Packages or private pay

Speak with a friendly member of our care team today for a confidential, no-obligation chat and a tailored plan for private dementia care in Melbourne.

_{Last updated: September 2025}

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