"I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me."
(Matthew 25:35-36)
Caring for a partner, relative or close friend with dementia is demanding and can be stressful. It's important to remember that your needs as a carer are as important as the person you're caring for. Family and friends can help in a variety of ways: from giving you a break, even if it's for only an hour, to taking the person with dementia to an activity or memory café.
Charities and voluntary organisations provide valuable support and advice on their websites and via their helplines:
- Alzheimer's Society's 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's Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline on 0800 888 6678 (free)
- Carers Direct helpline on 0300 123 1053 (free)
- Carers UK Helpline on 0800 808 7777 (free)
Lots of local help and support can be found on the council website.
