11/05/2026
Having been part of many assessments with people living with dementia, it has become increasingly apparent that the interaction between professionals, families, and the person themselves has a profound impact on their journey through dementia.
I use as my first example, Client 1.
This lady has advanced dementia and is really struggling with her memory and all aspects of living at home. Her once beautiful flat is becoming neglected and there was a strong smell of urine throughout the property. We were called in to take over from another care company, as concerns had grown regarding her care. Staff would ask her whether tasks had been completed and she would always answer “yes.” They would ask, “Have you eaten?” and she would say yes , because in her mind, she had. The problem was that nobody looked beyond the answer or tried to understand her reality.
Consequently, her bed was urine soaked, her diet was poor, and the situation was causing tremendous strain on her family, leading to constant battles with the care company.
During the assessment, every time I asked her a question, family members would jump in, often contradicting her. They would tell her people had passed away, tell her she could no longer manage her own flat, and every time she said she could still do something, they would shake their heads and say, “No, you can’t.”
Gradually, she fell quiet and withdrew into herself.
Client 2 was living with many of the same issues, and his family were also at breaking point. The difference was in the approach.
During the assessment, they simply allowed us to talk.
He told me he showered every morning, did his own shopping, hoovered daily, and was “happy as Larry.” We spoke for well over an hour. He told me about the work he used to do, how he still tinkers with engines, travels, and keeps busy. None of this was reality as others saw it , but it was his reality.
How beautiful it was to see him smile as he talked about his plans. He was relaxed, engaged, and most importantly, he felt heard. Afterwards, I spoke separately with his family to gather the information we needed. But the important part was him , right at the centre of his care.
Sometimes, when supporting somebody living with dementia, preserving dignity and emotional wellbeing matters more than correcting facts. Entering somebody’s reality rather than repeatedly pulling them out of it can reduce distress, build trust, and allow the person to feel safe, valued, and respected.
That does not mean ignoring risks or avoiding honest conversations with families. It means recognising that dementia care is not only about tasks and memory loss , it is about human connection
At Blossom Home Care, we recognise that dementia care is not just about completing tasks ,it is about understanding the person behind the diagnosis. We believe in meeting people where they are, listening to their reality, protecting dignity, and ensuring every individual remains at the centre of their own care journey. 🌸🌸
