September is World Alzheimer’s Month, a time to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and, most importantly, encourage more people to talk about them.

This year’s theme is “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters.”

It’s an important message because Alzheimer’s and dementia can be difficult subjects to talk about. You might notice changes in a loved one but wonder if they are simply part of getting older. You may even avoid mentioning your concerns because you’re worried about upsetting them.

But sometimes, starting that conversation can be one of the most helpful things you can do.

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. It is a progressive condition that affects the brain and can cause changes in memory, thinking, communication and everyday activities.

Memory loss is one of the symptoms most people associate with Alzheimer’s, but the condition can affect people in many different ways.

Someone living with Alzheimer’s might struggle to find the right words, become confused about familiar places, have difficulty managing everyday tasks or experience changes in their mood or behaviour.

It is also important to remember that dementia is not a normal part of getting older.

We all forget things from time to time. We might walk into a room and forget why we went there or occasionally misplace our keys. However, when changes in memory or thinking start to affect someone’s everyday life, it may be worth speaking to a GP.

Why does an early Alzheimer’s diagnosis matter?

Being told that you or someone you love may have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia can feel overwhelming. It can bring a lot of questions and uncertainty.

But having an answer can also provide a sense of direction.

An early diagnosis can give someone the opportunity to understand what is happening and access appropriate support. It can also allow them and their family to think about the future and make important decisions while the person is able to be actively involved.

This could include discussing care and support, finances, living arrangements, legal wishes and the things that are important to them.

An early Alzheimer’s diagnosis can also give families time to learn more about the condition and understand how best to support their loved one.

Knowing does not change who someone is. It simply helps everyone understand how to support them better.

What are some signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia?

There isn’t one single sign of Alzheimer’s, and everyone’s experience will be different.

Some changes that may be worth talking to a GP about include:

• Frequently forgetting recent conversations or events
• Repeating questions or stories
• Struggling with familiar tasks
• Becoming confused about dates or places
• Finding it increasingly difficult to follow conversations
• Having trouble finding familiar words
• Misplacing things and being unable to retrace their steps
• Changes in mood, personality or behaviour
• Becoming more withdrawn from activities they usually enjoy
• Finding everyday decisions or problem-solving more difficult

Seeing one of these signs does not automatically mean someone has Alzheimer’s or dementia. There can be many reasons for changes in memory or behaviour, which is why speaking to a healthcare professional is important.

Starting the conversation about Alzheimer’s

This can be one of the hardest parts.

If you’re worried about a loved one, it can be tempting to ignore the changes or wait and see if things improve. You may think, “I don’t want to make a fuss.”

Instead, try approaching the conversation gently.

Choose a quiet time when you won’t be interrupted. Talk about the specific changes you’ve noticed rather than immediately suggesting that they have Alzheimer’s.

For example, you could say:

“I’ve noticed you’ve been finding a few things more difficult recently. How have you been feeling?”

Give them time to talk and listen without judgement.

They may not agree that anything has changed, and that’s OK. You don’t have to solve everything in one conversation.

If the changes continue or are affecting their daily life, encourage them to speak to their GP.

Alzheimer’s affects more than memory

One of the biggest things we can do during World Alzheimer’s Month is challenge some of the misunderstandings around Alzheimer’s and dementia.

A person living with Alzheimer’s is still the same person.

They still have their own personality, memories, preferences, relationships and interests. They may simply need more support with certain things as their condition progresses.

Sometimes, the smallest things can make a big difference — taking the time to listen, being patient when someone needs longer to respond, helping them stay connected with the people and activities they enjoy, or simply being there when they need reassurance.

Good support isn’t about taking over someone’s life. It’s about helping them remain as independent as possible while making sure they feel safe, respected and understood.

How can home care help someone living with Alzheimer’s?

For many people living with Alzheimer’s, home is where they feel most comfortable. Familiar surroundings, routines and faces can provide reassurance, particularly when life starts to feel confusing.

Home care can provide practical and emotional support while helping someone remain in the place they know and love.

This could include help with personal care, preparing meals, medication support, household tasks, getting out and about or simply having someone there for companionship.

Every person is different, so the support they need should be based around them — their routines, preferences and what matters most to them.

At Fuchsia Homecare, we understand that good care is about seeing the person behind the condition. Our care workers take the time to get to know the people they support and provide care with patience, kindness and dignity.

This World Alzheimer’s Month, let’s keep talking

Alzheimer’s and dementia can be difficult subjects, but avoiding the conversation doesn’t make them go away.

The more we talk about Alzheimer’s, the more we can challenge misconceptions, recognise the signs and help people feel comfortable asking for support.

And that is why this year’s message is so important:

The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do.

If you have noticed changes in yourself or someone you care about, don’t be afraid to ask for advice. Getting a diagnosis can be an important first step towards understanding what is happening and finding the right support.

This September, let’s raise awareness, start conversations and remind people living with Alzheimer’s and their families that they don’t have to face it alone. 💜

Looking for support at home?

If you or someone you care about could benefit from extra support at home, the Fuchsia Homecare team is here to help.

Get in touch with us to find out more about our home care services and how we can support you or your loved one.

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