When a loved one receives a dementia diagnosis, life can feel as if it’s been turned upside down. Every family copes with the news differently, and no matter how strong, prepared, or informed you are, the transition comes with challenges. But there is hope. High-quality, compassionate home care can make an extraordinary difference, not only in managing the practical aspects of dementia but also in preserving dignity, familiarity, and quality of life. At Hamilton George Care, we take pride in delivering dedicated dementia support, matching you with carers with professionalism, empathy, and unparalleled expertise.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is not a single disease but an umbrella term for symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities. Alzheimer's disease is the most well-known form, but there are others, including vascular dementia and frontotemporal dementia. While dementia's progression varies person to person, maintaining routine and a familiar environment can work wonders in slowing confusion and cognitive decline. That’s where in-home care becomes invaluable.
Tailored dementia support from Hamilton George Care
At Hamilton George Care, we go beyond traditional care. With a combination of award-winning expertise, compassion, and clinical precision, we ensure that every aspect of our service revolves around the unique needs of our clients and their families. What makes us different?
1. Direct access to expertise:
Unlike other agencies, Hamilton George Care provides you with direct access to our Registered Nurse and Clinical Manager, Apple Jacobe, whenever you need. From the beginning, Apple works with you to create a tailored care plan based on your loved one’s specific symptoms, preferences, and needs. She’s available whenever you have concerns or need guidance, and is on hand to provide your carer with expert advice and support too.
2. Experienced & compassionate carers:
Choosing the right carer can make all the difference. Following consultations with us. you’ll have the opportunity to interview a selection of carers from our team, all with the relevant dementia experience and training. What’s more, we will work with you to intentionally build a rotation plan with a small, consistent team of carers to encourage familiarity and trust. Establishing a calm, predictable routine is crucial for dementia care, and consistency is one of the cornerstones of our approach.
3. Award-winning service:
Our dedication to exceptional dementia care hasn’t gone unnoticed. At the Homecare Awards 2024, Hamilton George Care proudly won in the "Dementia and Mental Health Expertise" category. This recognition reflects our deep commitment to excellence and innovation in dementia support.
What does dementia support at home entail?
Effective dementia care encompasses a wide variety of services tailored to the individual. At Hamilton George Care, our support includes but is not limited to:
1. Personalised care plans:
From supporting activities of daily living to finding ways to encourage independence, our approach is built around each client’s life story, routines, and preferences. Apple Jacobe brings her clinical expertise to every plan, working with your chosen carers to ensure it evolves with your loved one’s changing needs.
2. One-to-one support:
Unlike crowded care homes, our live-in carers provide devoted, undivided attention. Living alongside your loved one 24/7, they provide peace of mind for the wider family. They can assist with everything from conversation and companionship to personal care and housekeeping, ensuring that every detail is managed with care and respect.
3. Maintaining routines & independence:
Continuity is vital in dementia care. We work hard to preserve familiar routines and empower clients to engage in tasks that they’re capable of managing themselves, encouraging autonomy and building confidence. Understanding how our clients live - and have lived - their lives, is vital to our ability to provide life-enhancing care.
4. Encouraging hobbies & connections:
Many clients benefit greatly from continuing their hobbies, whether that’s gardening, reading, or walking their dog. When possible, our carers actively participate in helping clients enjoy these activities, reminding them that life doesn't have to stop after a diagnosis.
5. Specialist dementia monitoring:
From tracking physical health to recognising patterns of emotional shifts, our carers are trained to spot the subtler signs of change and can assist in medical meetings or diagnosis. This proactive approach enables families to address needs before they escalate.
Live-in care for those living with dementia
One of the most impactful care options for people living with dementia is live-in care. Remaining in the comfort of a familiar home environment can make a world of difference, particularly in alleviating the disorientation and anxiety often associated with dementia. Live-in care at Hamilton George offers:
1. 24-hour assistance:
Dementia doesn’t operate on a schedule, which is why our carers are there whenever you need them. Whether it’s helping with complex daily tasks or simply offering a comforting presence during restless nights, they ensure security and peace of mind.
2. The comforts of home:
The process of moving into residential care can be overwhelming, increasing feelings of confusion and isolation for someone experiencing dementia. Live-in care avoids that stress, allowing clients to stay surrounded by the cherished belongings, pets, and spaces they love.
3. Tailored care on your own terms:
From preparing favourite meals to timely bed routines, we respect our clients’ preferences. Care is never one-size-fits-all, and we adjust to your pace, not the other way around.
4. Dual support for couples:
For those who live with a partner, live-in carers can support both individuals, creating an opportunity for couples to stay together and receive the care they need under one roof.
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Advice from our registered nurse & Clinical Director Apple Jacobe
A recognised expert in dementia care, Apple Jacobe offers her insight on introducing care smoothly and supporting loved ones with dignity. Here are her top tips:
Start early:
“The earlier you introduce care, the better the chances of creating a smooth, positive transition. Families often wait until a crisis occurs, but starting when they’re still adjusting to their diagnosis helps build trust and ensures the care blends naturally into daily life.”
Prioritise familiarity:
“Surround them with items that evoke memories and provide comfort. It could be a favourite photograph, a familiar chair, or the smell of a certain lotion they’ve always used. These small touches can add immense reassurance.”
Stay flexible:
"Dementia changes over time. Care routines that work today might need to be adapted tomorrow. Communication between carers, families, and healthcare professionals ensures everyone is on the same page as needs evolve."
Look after yourself too:
“Families often bear the emotional and physical burden of dementia care. Whether you have been caring for your loved one yourself or have the support of an agency, the emotional stress can take its toll. It’s essential to take time for yourself, whether that’s regularly meeting up with friends or family or joining support groups for advice and camaraderie.”
Get in touch
At Hamilton George Care, we take great pride in helping families feel confident about their loved ones’ care. By combining world-class expertise, personalised attention, and a heart-led approach, we ensure that every client feels seen, respected, and supported.
Are you ready to learn more about dementia care at home? Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our dedicated team and tailor a care plan that brings assurance to your family and enriches your loved one’s life.
Hamilton George Care. Supporting you every step of the way.
