Caring for people with dementia

September is Dementia Action Month – a vital opportunity to recognise and support Australians living with dementia and the carers by their side. For many families, caring for people with dementia becomes a journey filled with love, understanding and resilience, as well as many challenges. At Focused Health Care, we believe in nurturing this journey by shining a light on caring for people with dementia, especially through dementia home care.

In this month’s blog, we look into home support during Dementia Action Month and how receiving in-home aged care dementia support can be beneficial.

Living with dementia at home

Dementia affects cognition, memory, daily functioning and behaviour — impacting not only the individual, but the whole family. In Australia, estimates suggest over 421,000 Australians live with dementia, with projections rising in coming decades.

The growing prevalence underscores the importance of accessible, person-centred care in family surroundings, such as the person’s home.

Living at home can promote independence, dignity and emotional comfort. At Focused Health Care, we understand you want to be in familiar environments, surrounded by things and people which have meaning to you. This is where at-home care can be hugely beneficial for people living with dementia.

In-home care includes services like:

• Medication management
• Personal care
• Meal support
• Nursing and wound care
• Social connection

The benefits of dementia home care

Opting for home care dementia services can have multiple advantages, including:
Familiarity and emotional comfort being in a known environment
Safety and tailored support where the home can be modified to mitigate any fall or wandering risks
Personalised, flexible care designed around a person’s changing needs
Respite opportunities for carers and family members

There are government subsidised options through the Federal Government’s My Aged Care program, which further enable access to these services for people with dementia. You can find out more about the My Aged Care program here.

Addressing caregiver wellbeing

Caring at home is rewarding but also can be demanding. Many family caregivers juggle extensive hours and often have their own paid employment as well. There are several ways to recognise caregiver wellbeing which Focused Health Care can support with, including:

• Support programs and respited care
• Connection with peer-based support lines
• In-home support for caregiving
• Hands-on support with home maintenance like cleaning, washing and cooking

In-home care vs nursing care

For some individuals, nursing homes provide structured, round-the-clock care. However, for many, dementia home care enables a level of person-centred living, which can help maintain the feeling of identity, comfort and connection. There may come a time where people with dementia require nursing home care, but where possible, in-home care can be an effective and safe option.

Taking action this Dementia Action Month

Each year, Dementia Action Month, runs throughout September, shining a light on the importance of understanding, supporting and empowering those living with dementia. The month is an opportunity for all Australians to reflect on how we can better support people with dementia to live well, whether at home or in care.

This year, Dementia Action Week (15-21 September) highlights the theme of creating communities which are inclusive and supportive. By raising awareness, promoting dementia-friendly practices, and encouraging carers to seek the right support, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected.

Practical steps you can take include:

• Learning more about dementia through Dementia Australia’s resources and community programs.
• Checking in with families and friends who are providing care, offering both emotional support and respite when possible.
• Advocating for inclusion, whether that’s in your workplace, local services, or community spaces, by promoting understanding and reducing stigma.

Find out more about the Dementia Action Week activities near you here.

Working with Focused Health Care

Above all, caring for someone with dementia means honouring their story, dignity and bonds. Focused Health Care’s team of experienced nurses can stand with your family to care and support your loved one as they navigate living with dementia.

Our team can help with the biggest and smallest areas of care, so please contact us to find out more today.

Disclaimer

*All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Focused Health Care can consult with you regarding your individual health needs.

References

Dementia Australia, Dementia facts and figures, accessed online 21 August 2025, https://www.dementia.org.au/about-dementia/dementia-facts-and-figures