As the population ages, dementia and specifically Alzheimer’s disease, is becoming an increasing concern for many of us. While the symptoms vary, the impact is profound, often leading to a gradual loss of independence and placing immense emotional, physical, and financial strain on their loved ones. Understanding Alzheimer’s disease is crucial, not only for those living with it but also for the unpaid carers who provide vital support in managing the condition on a day-to-day basis.
Caring Together Charity supports almost 2,000 local unpaid carers who care for a loved one with a form of dementia. We spoke to Ian who cares for his mother to shine a light on what it is like to care for a family member with Alzheimer’s disease.
Meet Ian
Towards the end of 2015, Ian started to notice some small changes in his mum’s character, “She had memory loss about quite big events from the previous year that she would have normally remembered. A few months later she was admitted to hospital for an infection and the staff suspected she may have dementia amongst other issues. On discharge her GP handled most issues but I had to battle to get an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. It took about 12 months to get this. Once the diagnosis was made we were fortunate to be referred to Ely Health Teams straight away.”
“They provided support and help quite quickly, and are always there if I need them. Within a few weeks we had lots of help and support in place including a weekly Day Centre for my mum and having carers in three times a day. That helps give me a break from caring.”
As a full-time carer, Ian’s days are filled with washing up, cooking, cleaning, house repairs, and
shopping. The weight of these responsibilities often takes a toll on his mental health and wellbeing.
Therefore, when he needs to unwind, he turns to a furry friend for comfort. “One of our neighbours has a cat named Boris, and he’s become a true source of comfort. Spending time with him feels like wrapping myself in a warm, soothing blanket, offering a quiet escape when I need it most. I also used to enjoy astronomy and cycling but unfortunately don’t have as much time for those at the moment.”
Ian has also relied on support from Caring Together that really helped him within his caring role:
“In 2023 I collapsed at home and used the ‘What If?’ Plan. This was really helpful as it meant that while I was at hospital my mum was in safe hands. I have been a member of the Ely Carers Hub for many years and now volunteer. It is good to speak to other unpaid carers to share ideas about how we manage in our caring roles. I learn a lot of helpful tips which are invaluable.”
“The support I’ve received from Caring Together’s hubs has been absolutely crucial in my role as an unpaid carer. The most important things I’ve learned are how to set up a Power of Attorney and securing legal protection for my mum’s assets when she enters care. Without this knowledge, my mum wouldn’t have the safeguards in place that he deserves.”
We asked Ian what advice he would give to unpaid carers who are just starting their caring journey. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help, push through when needed with your GP and reach out to charities like Caring Together and Alzheimer’s Society for guidance and support. Talking to somebody, whether a professional or another unpaid carer, means you might learn something you didn’t know about previously that can be really helpful in your caring journey.”
