Student Nurse Shares Their Experiences with Dementia in The Community

As a future mental health nurse, it might help if I share a bit of my back story. I have worked in the private and public healthcare sectors for over 12 years, providing care in the community, supporting care homes and social services as well as working for NHS trusts. Throughout my journey in healthcare, I have experienced the effects of physical disabilities and mental health challenges including the strain and heartache caused to a person and their loved ones. The range of understanding towards the people I support on a daily basis has grown remarkably over the last decade as have my experience and abilities. I have seen how supportive services and treatments have improved in recent years, with leads in new research potentials in the treatment of Alzheimer`s, as well as growth in the understanding and empathy from healthcare professionals and services. I believe there is still room to grow in this industry so my goal is to continue my journey in dementia care whilst supporting a range of individuals of all age groups struggling with their physical and mental health. With support from people living with dementia and their loved ones, I can find ways to improve their general well-being whilst aiming to provide ideas to better the way we work as healthcare professionals.
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Whilst training, I have found many factors that can improve a person’s well-being whilst living with dementia and associated conditions, however the key factors that can improve a person’s quality of life may include:
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Education and Awareness: There are educational programs, support groups and workshops available to raise awareness about dementia, its symptoms, and how to interact with individuals who have dementia, the Alzheimer`s Society support page can also help with finding some in your local area. This can help caregivers and family members share experiences, exchange advice, and find emotional support.
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Memory Cafés and Day Centres:
These are safe and inclusive spaces where individuals with dementia and their caregivers can socialise, engage in activities, and build connections. Day centres offer structured activities and caring support which is available through local services such as the Alzheimer`s Society.
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Respite Care Services:
Provide respite care services to give caregivers temporary relief and the opportunity to recharge while ensuring their loved ones are well taken care of. This is often arranged through your GP and local social services to arrange appropriate support.

Home Visits:
Arrange for trained volunteers or professionals to visit homes and provide companionship, assistance with daily activities, and engagement for individuals with dementia.
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Transportation Services:
Provide transportation options for individuals with dementia to attend community activities, medical appointments, and social gatherings.
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Collaboration with Healthcare Professionals:
Collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a holistic approach to dementia care and support which may include medication as well as factors listed in this article.
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Recreational and Therapeutic Activities:
Organise arts and crafts, music therapy, gardening, and other activities that promote cognitive stimulation and emotional well-being.
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Technology Support:
Introduce technology-based solutions such as apps, video calls, and virtual support groups to connect individuals with dementia and their caregivers.
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Legal and Financial Advice:
Provide guidance and resources to help families navigate legal and financial matters related to dementia care, including power of attorney and estate planning. This can also be found on the Alzheimer`s Society support page.
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Alternative therapies and supplements for dementia:
This could include the use of coconut oil, omega 3, 6 and 9 to support brain function, turmeric, Vitamin B12, seeds and leafy greens including spinach and kale used alongside a healthy balanced diet to reduce cholesterol and improve overall health. Light therapy has been identified as potentially helpful to those who experience sleep disturbances as well as meditation and grounding exercises such as yoga and tai-chi. A holistic approach that combines these strategies can create a supportive and compassionate community for individuals with dementia and their caregivers, enhancing their quality of life and promoting social inclusion.

Our Goal

As a family-run business that has experienced the effects of dementia first-hand, we are committed to ensuring we do as much as we can to raise awareness of this condition, we are able to provide our customers with recommendations, services and products that can support an individual and their loved one with the effects of dementia and better their quality of life as best we can. As a team, we aim to raise money for the Alzheimer`s Society through our work and with additional fundraising days including a sponsored bike ride from London to Brighton, this a 56-mile ride and will be completed by one of our family members and directors of AJT Showers. We will be completing more fundraising events and publishing the dates when we have them, for more information regarding the ride and future events by our team please see the “Dementia Information and Our Goal to Support the Alzheimer’s Society” blog page.

AJT Showers LTD
Author: Danielle