How Do Care Homes Support People Living With Dementia?

Dementia is a condition that affects the lives of millions of families across the UK. As the condition progresses, many people begin to explore care options that offer their loved ones the support, dignity, and quality of life they deserve. For many, moving into a care home becomes a positive and necessary step.

Understanding What Dementia is

Dementia is not a single illness, but a collective term for a range of neurological conditions that affect the brain. It often begins with subtle signs: misplacing items, difficulty with words or changes in mood etc. but it can develop into more significant challenges with memory, reasoning, communication, and even movement.

Some of the most common forms include:

Alzheimer’s Disease – The most recognised type, causing gradual memory loss and confusion.

Vascular Dementia – Often linked to strokes or restricted blood flow in the brain, leading to slower thinking and difficulty concentrating.

Lewy Body Dementia – Known for symptoms like hallucinations, sleep disturbances, and movement difficulties.

Frontotemporal Dementia – A rarer form that often affects personality, behaviour and language, more common in people under 65.

Mixed Dementia – A combination of two or more types, such as Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.

Each diagnosis presents its own challenges, but the common thread is the need for compassionate, consistent, and skilled care.

When Might a Care Home Be the Right Step?

Deciding to move a loved one into a care home is rarely easy, but sometimes, it’s the safest and most supportive decision for all involved.

You might consider residential dementia care when:

• Your loved one begins to forget to eat, take medication, or stay safe at home
• Mobility becomes an issue, increasing the risk of falls
• Confusion leads to wandering or distress
• Providing care at home becomes overwhelming for family members

In a care home setting, trained staff are available day and night to provide the help needed, allowing residents to live with dignity and families to have peace of mind.

Personalised Dementia Care Plans

At the heart of good dementia care is individuality. At Sandmere Care Home, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Before a new resident moves in, teams will work closely with the individual and their family to create a personalised care plan. This takes into account everything from medical history and dietary needs to hobbies, habits, and personal preferences. Because dementia affects everyone differently, our approach is flexible. As needs change over time, so does the care provided.

Safety Without Sacrificing Comfort

People living with dementia may be at higher risk of accidents or confusion, so safety is a key focus in dementia-friendly environments. But it should never come at the cost of comfort.

Sandmere Care Home has been designed with safety and ease-of-navigation in mind:

• Clear, well-lit signage to reduce disorientation
• Secure yet accessible outdoor areas for fresh air and freedom
• Colour-contrasting furniture and familiar décor to support memory
• Handrails, wide hallways, and adapted bathrooms to prevent falls

These thoughtful features allow residents to move around with confidence while still feeling at home.

Engaging Daily Activities That Spark Joy

Boredom and isolation can worsen the symptoms of dementia. That’s why we place a strong focus on meaningful, enjoyable activities. Our team creates daily activity schedules that support cognitive stimulation, creativity, social interaction, and movement. These might include:

• Music therapy sessions (music can trigger powerful memories)
• Reminiscence activities using photo albums or keepsakes
• Arts and crafts tailored to ability levels
• Gentle exercise and mobility-friendly games
• Baking, gardening, or simply sharing stories over tea

By offering a sense of purpose and achievement, these activities can lift mood, reduce anxiety, and even slow cognitive decline.

The Power of Routine

For many people with dementia, routine is comforting. It creates predictability in a world that can often feel confusing.

Care homes provide this gentle structure, with regular mealtimes and medication schedules, consistent caregivers and familiar faces, and daily rituals. At Sandmere, we blend routine with flexibility, giving residents the support they need while allowing freedom in how they spend their day.

A Warm, Supportive Team Makes All the Difference

Caring for someone with dementia takes patience, empathy, and specialist knowledge. All our staff at Sandmere receive thorough training in dementia care, covering everything from communication techniques to managing behaviour compassionately. But more than that, we choose team members who genuinely care. People who take the time to listen, who can calm anxieties, and who celebrate every small victory with a smile.

Our chefs work to create meals that not only meet dietary needs but bring joy. Residents are free to eat when and where they like - whether that’s in the dining room with friends, in the garden, or in the comfort of their own room. We cater to sensory needs, texture preferences, and favourite dishes that may spark fond memories.

We make every effort to involve families in care planning, decision-making, and day-to-day life. Whether you’re visiting regularly, joining in on activities, or attending care reviews, you’re always welcome.
We’re also here to offer advice, emotional support, and signposting to helpful resources like:
Dementia UK
Alzheimer’s Society
Age UK

Dementia Care at Sandmere Care Home, Kent

Sandmere Care Home is a purpose-built care home in Kent, offering specialist dementia care in a safe, friendly and beautifully designed setting. From our welcoming team to our lovely outdoor spaces, everything we do is focused on helping residents live their best possible lives.

Whether it’s a personalised care plan, a familiar face, or a favourite song that brings comfort, we’re here to provide support every step of the way. If you’re exploring dementia care for a loved one, we’re here to talk.

Book a visit to Sandmere Care Home today and see first-hand how we’re helping those living with dementia feel calm, supported and at home.