A guide to understanding dementia 3 Welcome A diagnosis of dementia for you or a loved one can come as a shock. Even if you have been half expecting it, having to adjust to a life with dementia can be a worrying and upsetting time, and it can be especially hard for those close to you. This guide draws on our wide experience of caring for hundreds of people with dementia and our understanding of the sadness and stress it can cause family and friends. At Independent People Homecare, we recognise every person living with dementia is unique and will experience dementia in their own way. We hope this guide will provide some useful information about dementia and how to care and support a loved one. Contents Welcome What is dementia? Alzheimer’s versus dementia Types of dementia How can I tell if someone has dementia? The 7 stages of dementia Caring for someone at home with dementia Frequently asked questions A dementia homecare service Case study Useful contacts 3 4 5 7 8 10 12 14 20 22 24