What help is available for a family carer supporting someone with dementia?
Support may include respite, personal care, social support, education, allied health and help coordinating services.
Key points
- Support may include respite, personal care, social support, education, allied health and help coordinating services.
- The older person's choices and decision-making rights remain central.
- Small, respectful steps often work better than forcing a complete care arrangement.
Support may include respite, personal care, social support, education, allied health and help coordinating services.
Carer Gateway and dementia-specific organisations may also provide counselling, planning and practical support outside the aged care budget.
Formal services can include respite, personal care, nursing, allied health and social support. Carer Gateway can provide separate counselling, coaching and respite support for the carer.
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01Guide sectionWhat should I do next?
Choose one practical concern and discuss it without labelling the person as incapable.
Involve a trusted GP, family member or advocate where this may help.
Document formal representative or decision-making authority only where it is actually required.
02Guide sectionHelpful Local Home Help resources
03Guide sectionCheck the official guidance
Check representative and rights information. Aged care rules, funding amounts and program guidance can change, so check the current official information before making an important care or financial decision.
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