 Caring for someone living with dementia isn’t just emotionally demanding—it can also place an immense financial strain on families. From lost income to navigating complex care systems, carers often find themselves shouldering significant financial burdens.
The good news? There is support out there. Here’s what carers need to know about the financial help available—and how attending one of our information sessions could make a huge difference. 1. Understanding Benefits for People Living with Dementia
2. Financial Support for Carers
NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is a little-known but potentially game-changing form of funding. If your loved one’s care needs are primarily health-related (rather than social care), they may be eligible for fully funded care from the NHS—covering residential fees, home care, and even specialist nursing costs. However, CHC can be complicated to understand and challenging to access without the right information. That’s why we strongly recommend attending one of our Information Sharing Sessions. At www.dementia-experience.com, we host sessions specifically focused on CHC funding—what it is, who qualifies, how to apply, and what to do if your application is rejected. You’ll learn about:
4. Help with Everyday Care Costs
You don’t have to navigate dementia care finances alone. With the right knowledge and support—from benefits to CHC funding—you can ease the burden and access resources that protect both your loved one’s wellbeing and your own. Our CHC-focused information sessions can be the key to accessing thousands of pounds in funding that many carers don’t even realise exists.
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 During the early stages of dementia, there often signs and symptoms that lead a person to get a diagnosis. At this stage, the person is likely to be largely independent, and need minimal support in their day-to-day living. However, with the decline in cognitive function such as memory (remembering to eat, having trouble with reading the time or repeatedly losing keys/getting locked out of the house) mean that more assistance and support may be needed. The early stages of dementia are when most people start to think about planning for their future.
 One crucial aspect of care is ensuring your person stays hydrated, as dehydration can exacerbate confusion, increase the risk of falls, and lead to other health complications. Here are some practical, compassionate strategies to help your loved one maintain adequate hydration. Dementia UK
Understand How They See the World As dementia progresses, it can affect how a person sees and interprets colour. Many people with dementia struggle to see pale or similar shades clearly. For example, a clear glass of water on a white table may become “invisible” to them. Using brightly coloured cups, preferably in a strong contrast to the table or background (like red, blue, or yellow), can help the drink stand out and feel more inviting. Make Hydration a Habit, Not a Hassle People with dementia may no longer recognise when they're thirsty. Instead of waiting for them to ask for a drink, offer fluids regularly throughout the day. Think small and often—at meals, with medication, and during everyday moments like watching TV or going for a walk. Over time, these little routines become familiar and comforting. Offer a Variety of Fluids They EnjoyTry warm herbal teas, diluted juices, milkshakes, or squash. You might find that using a favourite cup, or one in a colour they love and can easily see, encourages more sips. Hydrating Foods Count Too Remember, hydration isn’t just about what’s in a glass. Foods like cucumber, melon, oranges, soups, or yoghurt can all boost fluid levels. These are often easier to offer throughout the day and may feel less overwhelming for someone who resists drinking. A Clever Helper: Jelly Drops Jelly Drops are award-winning bite-sized sweets made from 95% water. They’re colourful, tasty, and easy to pick up—designed specifically for people with dementia. Many carers find them a game-changer, especially for loved ones who struggle to drink from a cup or refuse drinks altogether. Their bright colours also make them visually appealing and easy to spot for someone with dementia, which can encourage independent intake without any pressure. Keep Drinking Habits Calm, Social, and Supportive Drink together, if you can. Sometimes the gentle cue of you taking a sip is all it takes. Keep the atmosphere relaxed and free from too much noise or stress. Sitting down with your loved one, smiling, and making eye contact while offering a drink can often achieve more than constant reminders. Even saying ‘cheers’ as you raise your glass to theirs can make it feel more fun and more likely for them to match your action as you take a sip. Look for Signs of Dehydration Even with your best efforts, dehydration can still happen. Look for signs like:
Helpful links & communities Contact The Dementia Experience in Kent for local support. We host regular, free coffee mornings and events that support people with dementia, and their families at every step of the process. www.dementia-experience.co.uk Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline free on 0800 888 6678 to talk to a registered specialist dementia nurse; lines are open 9am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm at weekends Donate to the Dementia Experience and help us support more families in Kent. If you're concerned, don’t hesitate to reach out to your GP or get in touch with The Dementia Experience who run Information Sharing Sessions in which you’ll get the opportunity to connect with other people in the same boat. According to www.alzheimers.org.uk: “In the UK, approximately 982,000 people are estimated to be living with dementia. More of a third of people with the condition do not have a diagnosis.” Diagnosis is a life-altering moment in anyone’s life.
Visiting Your GP The initial screening will likely be performed by your GP. This is to rule out common ailments and conditions that share many of the same symptoms, such as a Urinary Tract Infection which can also show symptoms of memory loss, confusion and temporary loss of motor skills. Your GP will likely carry out a General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition which involves things like asking what day it is today, to remember a name and address, drawing a clock on a piece of paper or talking about something that has happened in the news. Here’s an example of the test: https://gpcog.com.au/index/patient-assessment Detailed medical history assessment At the assessment you may be asked lots of questions concerning all aspects of your health - from diet, to exercise, and general medical history. This should be very thorough so expect to be asked lots of questions that don’t necessarily feel directly connected to dementia. Blood tests
Cognitive tests You may be asked to take part in cognitive tests to assess your memory, and communication skills. These tests are designed to help the practitioner. Brain scans These are likely to be either CT scan, MRI or both. An MRI can be frightening - if you’ve never had one before, you might feel easily confused or experience claustrophobia. Here is some information from the NHS on what it’s like and how to prepare. Become a member for free today and visit our local dementia coffee mornings in Kent: www.dementia-experience.co.uk UK -wide dementia helplines Alzheimer's Society: Dementia Connect support line on 0333 150 3456 Age UK: advice line on 0800 678 1602 (free) Independent Age: helpline on 0800 319 6789 (free) Dementia UK: Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline on 0800 888 6678 (free)  Dementia is not a single disease or mental illness. It's an umbrella term to describe a collection of symptoms that some people experience that impact body and brain function. This is including but not limited to Alzheimers disease.
Dementia is categorised by “abnormal” brain changes that bring about issues such as memory loss, mood swings, a decline in cognitive ability and the ability to function independently. Types of Dementia Alzheimer's disease: The most prevalent form, characterised by brain cell damage and protein deposits (plaques and tangles). Vascular dementia: Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to stroke or other vascular problems. Lewy body dementia: Involves the accumulation of Lewy bodies, protein clumps, in the brain, leading to cognitive and motor symptoms. Frontotemporal dementia (FTD): Affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, causing changes in personality, behaviour, and language. Mixed dementia: A combination of two or more types of dementia, such as Alzheimer's and vascular dementia. Your diagnostic healthcare practitioner will provide you with information (at your request) regarding which type of dementia you might have, and should arrange a follow up appointment with you. According to www.alz.org, “Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60%-80% of cases. Vascular dementia, which occurs because of microscopic bleeding and blood vessel blockage in the brain, is the second most common cause of dementia. Those who experience the brain changes of multiple types of dementia simultaneously have mixed dementia. There are many other conditions that can cause symptoms of cognitive impairment but that aren’t dementia, including some that are reversible, such as thyroid problems and vitamin deficiencies. Dementia is often incorrectly labelled as “going senile”. This is a misconception that memory loss and cognitive decline is a normal part of getting older. Symptoms and signs of dementia Signs of dementia can vary greatly. Examples include problems with:
Symptoms start slowly and typically increase in frequency and severity. The timeframe for this is different for everyone. This progression is very frightening for care-givers and usually leads to seeking out medical help, such as a diagnosis. If you are concerned about a loved one, don’t delay in seeking answers. There are lots of treatable medical conditions with the same symptoms. Having said that, early diagnosis of dementia ensures you can obtain the treatments and support to maximise quality of life for both your loved one and yourself as a caregiver. Causes Different types of dementia are due to different types of brain cell damage in the brain. In Alzheimer's disease, high levels of certain proteins in the brain cells make it hard to function normally. The brain region called the hippocampus is the centre of learning and memory in the brain. This is commonly the first area to experience damage. This causes memory loss. Diagnosis There are lots of different tests that help lead to a diagnosis of dementia. The first port of call is your GP. They will likely ask you questions about you or your loved one about their ability to take care of themselves such as getting dressed, cooking, shopping or paying bills on time. Keeping a diary of symptoms can be helpful. If your GP is unable to rule out any other conditions that may be causing the problems you are experiencing, they might refer you or your loved on to a dementia specialist. A conformation of dementia is something most people are very frightened of. Here’s the offical guidance from the NHS (as of May 2025): “After you've had the necessary tests (or sometimes before the tests), your doctor should ask if you want to know your diagnosis. They should explain what having dementia might mean for you and give you time to talk about the condition and ask questions. Unless you decide otherwise, your doctor, or a member of their team, should talk to you and your family or carer about:
Your feelings after a diagnosis A dementia diagnosis takes a massive emotional toll on the person and their loved ones. You may feel that you need a lot of time to process the information, as it often comes with feelings of grief. A person recently diagnosed with dementia is likely to experience a huge range of emotions. These may include but are not limited to shock, grief, loss, anger, fear and/or disbelief. Sometimes people experience positive reactions when they receive a diagnosis of dementia. They can feel relieved to know what is wrong or be glad to be able to plan ahead. It is completely normal to struggle to deal with these emotions and to need outside help to navigate your way through this different way of living. Thinking about the future may be very frightening for a person with dementia as well as their friends and family. They may feel afraid about the future, scared about moments of confusion or upset about the impact dementia has on their nearest and dearest. The confirmation of a diagnosis may trigger depression and anxiety in some people. There are a number of talking therapies and drug treatments available to relieve some of the symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. It is important that both the person with dementia and those around them feel able to express their feelings and seek out support - such as our free coffee mornings - to be around people who truly understand and can validate your feelings, experiences and reach out when you are having a harder day than usual. Become a Dementia Experience member for free today & visit our local dementia coffee mornings in Kent: www.dementia-experience.co.uk UK -wide dementia helplines
Donate to the Dementia Experience and help us support more families in Kent. TV Review: Anna Richardson: Love, Loss & Dementia I watched Anna Richardson's Channel 4 documentary 'Love, Loss & Dementia' in eager anticipation. "At last!" I thought, "someone who is going to do for dementia what Davina did for the menopause." A much needed mainstream program that would help delete the stigma and get conversations flowing. I wanted to be moved but not by tragic stories. I wanted to be inspired- to be shaken up by fascinating insights. I wanted to see a dogged, and empathetic, approach to delving into deep, uncomfortable, conversations. I wanted revelations and I wanted hope. Disappointment. There wasn't really anything particularly revolutionary about it. Nothing new, nothing radical, no novel thinking. We were given examples of families facing mild, moderate and severe levels of dementia, all desperate in their own way, all one way ticket situations. Pink haired Mary so lovingly caring for her husband Richard at home until she could no longer. She had fully sacrificed her own working life as a bespoke clothing designer and she admits that she has 'lost herself'. This cruel illness, she so rightly describes as being so difficult because it is 'drawn out over so many years' means that she has 'no resilience left' and she describes how she is 'ground down completely'. Anna Richardson responds 'noone should have to care 24/7... but she loves him'. I think Mary would agree with many of us that in fact setting them free, in this case to a care home, can be seen as one of the greatest acts of love. Distressing though it is, this is the environment that at a certain point our loved ones with dementia need. It often doesn't suit us- the guilt of handing them over, the yuk of some of the smells, the fact that residents' aren't always fully dressed.. and yet.. and yet this... is the place for them. Here they can be looked after by a team of carers whose buttons aren't being pressed trying to preserve. Accepting their new reality is one of the hardest, and most important acts of love we can offer. "The government must do more" seems to be the battle cry. Well yes, but no questions were asked of any government ministers. Plus this does give us an excuse not to become engines of our own change. We need to big up people power and focus more on the light than the darkness. Look at what the inspiring self-help Afro-Caribbean group achieved by funding their own coffee mornings for others' living with dementia. Why wasn't there a further focus on these kinds of enterprising and energising ways of approaching the situation? Turning pain into purpose. We may not be able to eradicate dementia but we can make a difference.  Extra chairs had to be brought upstairs at Woodchurch House care home yesterday for our most well attended concert to date! Their was a huge buzz in the air as the residents and their families gathered for the Christmas Concert. We are so grateful to the professional singers Charlotte King and Tim Nelson from Songhaven for delivering another outstanding performance- there was not a dry eye in the house! Huge success & here's to many more!
We are proud to be working on an exciting collaboration with Royal Museums Greenwich and CommonGround&, an arts platform showcasing contemporary art and creatives from South Asia and its diaspora. The aim is to create meaningful reminiscence resources for people living with dementia and their carers in the South Asian community.  This weekend I completed the 26 miles mission that is 'Trek26 Stonehenge', organised by The Alzheimer's Society. There are several of these around the country to sign up to- and I would much recommend! The legs are sore and one big blister on left foot is making walking tricky but oh so worth it in terms of raising awareness and sponsorship, plus a great mission to get your teeth stuck into. I went it alone but felt so supported by messages of love and I was lucky enough to meet some great people along the way. I covered the ground in 8hrs and met one woman in particular, Camilla, with whom I walked almost from start to finish. We were on the same page about so much. It's these encounters with strangers that have really struck me as so important. We all need each other in one way or another. Keep reaching out and keep moving forward.  Movement has always made sense to me. Dad was a keen marathon runner and, as a family, we watched him compete in short and long distance races around the world. Mum took it up in order to train for the London Marathon and enjoyed one of the best days of her life doing it.
As an adult, I've raised money for charity doing one full and a handful of half marathons. It's a great way to raise money, awareness and to make your moves 'public' so that it becomes a mission you can't duck out of! The high of completing an event is tremendous as is the sense of achievement. Recently, mum's dementia has taken centre stage and at times I've resented the situation and at other times I've felt so tearful for the mum that I'm losing. However, as time has passed and she has descended further, I've come to terms with it more and I've learnt to make it my mission to turn pain into purpose. This approach has really helped me. One of the challenges I've taken on is a Trek26; these are a series of half and full marathon walks organised by the Alzheimer's Society. So off I'll set on 11th. May to walk the 26 mile route around Stonehenge, and beyond! This event has given me a goal and I hope on the day to meet many others in the same boat as I. Best of luck to everyone on a mission! |
AuthorClara Hebblethwaite; Founder of The Dementia Experience Archives
November 2025
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