Caring for a loved one with dementia is a journey filled with emotional, physical, and mental challenges. As the condition progresses, caregivers often find themselves navigating unfamiliar territory—seeking ways to provide compassionate, effective support while also maintaining their own well-being.
Understanding dementia, and the importance of memory care, is essential to offering the right kind of help at the right time.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is not a specific disease, but rather a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60–80% of cases, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
While memory loss is a common symptom, dementia also affects communication, judgment, orientation, and behavior. Over time, individuals with dementia require increasing levels of care and support.
How to Support a Loved One with Dementia
“Dementia is caused by damage to brain cells. This damage interferes with the ability of brain cells to communicate with each other,” explains the Alzheimer’s Association. “When brain cells cannot communicate normally, thinking, behavior and feelings can be affected.”
“People with Alzheimer’s may repeat things, forget conversations, or get lost in familiar places,” notes the National Institute on Aging. “It’s important to respond with reassurance and love.”
Try listening to familiar songs together, doing a simple craft, or looking through photo albums. Moments of joy and connection matter—no matter how small they may seem.
Explore Programs Designed for Those with Dementia
One of the most impactful ways to support a loved one with memory loss is through structured, supportive programs specifically designed for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Social Day Programs offer a safe, stimulating environment where participants can engage in activities tailored to their cognitive and physical abilities. These programs often include:
Not only do these programs enrich the lives of participants — they also provide essential respite for caregivers. Knowing that your loved one is safe, engaged, and well-cared-for during the day can give you time to work, rest, or attend to other responsibilities.
Some programs may even offer specialized memory care programming or transportation services. Access Care Partners can help you find resources to support your loved one and the caregiver.
“Engaging in meaningful activities and maintaining social connections can help individuals with dementia retain their sense of purpose and quality of life,” says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Monica Crespo, Caregiver Support Specialist at Access Care Partners, affirms this deeply human side of the caregiving journey:
“Caregiving for your loved one with Dementia can at times feel overwhelming but there are also those ever-rewarding moments. The important thing to remember is you are their person, and that means they know they can count on you, and that you help them feel safe. It is a gift to know you have taken on this journey of caring for them. Remember to embrace those moments where they laugh while reminiscing over photos or they reach out for that hug from you! Those are the moments that remind you of the good work you are doing. Your person may be experiencing Dementia, but their core person is still there, and thankful for every moment you help them feel safe and loved!”
Practice Self-Care and Seek Help
Being a caregiver can be emotionally and physically draining. It’s okay to ask for help. Taking breaks, getting enough sleep, and maintaining your own health is not selfish — it’s essential.
“Caregivers often experience high levels of stress, depression, and anxiety,” says the Family Caregiver Alliance. “Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.”
“Give yourself some grace,” says Crespo, “and remember self-care is self-love to get you through this journey!”
You don’t have to do it alone.
Every Step Matters
Caring for someone with dementia is a deeply meaningful act of love. With the right tools, community resources, and support, you can help your loved one live with dignity—and take care of yourself along the way. Contact Access Care Partners’ Caregiver Support Specialist by calling us at 413.538.9020. We’re here to help.
Access Care Partners is a private, non-profit agency founded in 1974 which is funded in parts by grants and contracts from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE) and the federal Administration for Community Living. We are part of a network of Aging Services Access Points and Area Agencies on Aging.
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