Supporting People Living with Dementia

For nurses working in aged care, it's often the small things that can make a meaningful difference when supporting a resident living with dementia.

At Medcall, our nurses work across a range of aged care environments, supporting residents with different needs, routines and levels of independence. While every resident is different, there are a few principles that can help make dementia care more comfortable, respectful and person-centred.

Keep things familiar

Routine can provide a sense of comfort and security for people living with dementia. Keeping everyday activities such as meals, personal care and regular activities consistent can make the day feel more predictable.

Familiar objects, photographs, music and activities can also provide reassurance and opportunities for connection. Taking the time to understand a resident's usual routines, interests and preferences can help create a greater sense of familiarity.

For aged care nurses, this means taking the time to learn what matters to each resident and incorporating that knowledge into their everyday care wherever possible.

Support independence and dignity

Needing assistance with everyday personal tasks can be difficult for anyone. When providing support with bathing, dressing, eating or other activities, it's important to give residents the opportunity to do as much as they can for themselves.

Taking things at their own pace, explaining what you're doing and offering choices wherever possible can help maintain a sense of control and dignity.

Supporting independence doesn't always mean doing less. Sometimes, it means taking a little more time to support someone to do something for themselves.

Communicate with patience

Dementia can affect a person's ability to find words, understand information or communicate how they are feeling. Taking the time to listen, speaking calmly and giving someone plenty of time to respond can make communication easier.

Keeping distractions to a minimum, using clear and simple language, and asking one question at a time can also help. If words aren't working, familiar objects, photographs, gestures or an activity can sometimes provide another way to connect.

Good communication is an important part of dementia care, particularly when a resident is experiencing changes in their ability to communicate or express their needs.

Encourage activity and engagement

Meaningful activity doesn't have to be complicated. Residents may enjoy listening to music, gardening, helping with everyday tasks, spending time outdoors, taking part in organised activities or simply having a conversation about something that interests them.

The important thing is to consider the person's interests, abilities and preferences, and support them to participate in ways that are appropriate for them.

For aged care nurses, this can be as simple as recognising an opportunity for connection during an everyday interaction and encouraging a resident to participate where appropriate.

Help maintain a safe environment

As dementia progresses, familiar environments can sometimes present new challenges. Being aware of potential hazards, keeping frequently used areas accessible and following the facility's care and safety procedures can help residents maintain their independence while reducing risks.

For our aged care nurses, this also means noticing changes in a resident's mobility, behaviour or wellbeing and communicating concerns to the wider care team when needed.

Every shift provides an opportunity to notice how a resident is doing and contribute to their ongoing care.

See the person, not just the diagnosis

Above all, good dementia care starts with seeing the person, not just the diagnosis.

Every resident living with dementia has their own history, preferences, abilities, relationships and routines. Taking the time to understand these things is an important part of providing care that is respectful, compassionate and genuinely person-centred.

At Medcall, we're proud to support nurses working in aged residential care who bring their clinical knowledge, experience and compassion to every shift.

This World Alzheimer’s Day, we're recognising the nurses and care teams who put these principles into practice every day, helping people living with dementia feel safe, supported and valued.

Further dementia care resources

Medcall is proud to support the New Zealand Dementia Foundation, which provides information, resources and guidance to support best practice in dementia and Alzheimer’s care.

For more information and resources, visit the New Zealand Dementia Foundation.