Elder

01/03/2026

Dementia Progression: Understanding how symptoms can change over time

If you’re trying to make sense of the stages of dementia, we’ve put together a clear guide that explains how symptoms may change over time and what families might notice at each stage. You can read it here:
https://www.elder.org/articles/dementia-care/what-are-the-7-stages-of-dementia/

Dementia doesn’t progress the same way for everyone. For some families, changes feel gradual. For others, shifts can feel more noticeable.

Some key things to know:

- Early signs can be subtle and easy to dismiss
- Support needs often increase over time
- Changes may affect memory, behaviour, communication and daily living
- Progression is not always linear

Sudden or severe changes should always be medically assessed.

Families often find themselves asking:
“Is this part of the condition, or is something else going on?”

Understanding the typical stages can help you feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and plan the right support at the right time.

27/02/2026

What does independence really mean as we get older?

It can look different for everyone. For some, it’s making their own decisions. For others, it’s staying in the home they love. Sometimes, it’s simply being listened to.

Our Head of Clinical, Bianca Wardle, recently spoke with The Independent about why preserving independence is so important in later life, and how families can navigate sensitive conversations while still making sure their loved ones receive the right care and support.

“While independence can look different to everyone, it’s essentially about being able to make your own decisions and living your life in the way that you see fit.”

These conversations aren’t always easy. But approaching them with empathy and understanding can make all the difference.

You can read the full article here: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/how-to-look-after-elderly-parents-without-taking-away-their-independence-b2928154.html

Offering vital support to parents in later life requires collaborative care and open communication.

27/02/2026

This week’s Elder spotlight goes to Victor 🎉

Victor stepped up, going above and beyond to help those in need.

From supporting the wider team to taking the time to personally show a carer how to navigate the ElderHub app, he didn’t hesitate to help wherever he was needed.

It’s those small, thoughtful moments that make a real difference, not just internally, but for the carers and families who rely on us every day.

Thank you, Victor, for embodying what Elder is all about 💙

26/02/2026

Dealing with a Dementia Diagnosis

If you or someone you love has recently received a dementia diagnosis, we’ve put together a practical guide on what to expect and how to cope . You can read it here:
https://www.elder.org/articles/dementia-care/dealing-with-a-diagnosis/

A diagnosis can bring a mix of emotions. For many families, it isn’t just one feeling, it’s several, often all at once.

Some people feel shock or disbelief at first.
Others experience anger, sadness or even relief at finally having answers.

Over time, families often move towards adjustment, learning more, putting support in place, and focusing on what matters most.

There’s no “right” way to respond to a dementia diagnosis. What matters is knowing you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Understanding the emotional journey can be just as important as understanding the condition itself.

25/02/2026

Parkinson’s Disease: Understanding the different types

If you or someone you love has been affected by Parkinson’s, it can be hard to make sense of all the different forms it can take.

We’ve put together a clear guide explaining the main types of Parkinsonism and what families might notice.
You can read it here: https://www.elder.org/articles/parkinsons-care/types-of-parkinsons/

Parkinson’s isn’t one-size-fits-all, symptoms, progression and care needs can vary depending on the type.

Some key things to know:

- Parkinson’s disease (idiopathic) causes classic motor symptoms like tremor & slow movement
- Vascular parkinsonism can follow strokes or reduced blood flow
- Drug-induced parkinsonism is triggered by certain medications
- Atypical parkinsonism may progress faster and affect balance or thinking

And when you’re caring for someone with Parkinson’s, it’s not just movement changes to watch, non-motor symptoms like mood, sleep and bladder changes are common too.

Understanding the type they’re living with can help you ask better questions, plan the right support, and feel more confident in care decisions.

24/02/2026

Vascular Dementia: Understanding how it progresses

If you’re trying to make sense of the stages of dementia, we’ve put together a clear guide that explains how symptoms can change over time, and what families might notice at each stage. You can read it here: https://www.elder.org/articles/dementia-care/what-are-the-7-stages-of-dementia/

Vascular dementia is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often following strokes or small vessel disease. Unlike Alzheimer’s, it can sometimes progress in noticeable “steps,” particularly after further vascular events.

Some key things to know about vascular dementia:

- Changes may affect thinking speed before memory
- Planning, organisation and decision-making are often impacted early
- Physical symptoms like balance problems or weakness can occur
- Progression can feel uneven rather than gradual

Symptoms don’t always follow a smooth pattern and families can feel uncertain about what’s happening, especially if changes seem sudden.

Understanding the typical stages can help you feel more prepared, ask the right questions, and plan the right support at the right time.

22/02/2026

Dementia Support: When someone you love no longer recognises you

When recognition fades, it can feel heartbreaking, confusing, and deeply painful.

But it’s important to remember that this isn’t about rejection.

Recognition loss in dementia is caused by changes in the brain.
The part that stores and retrieves memories can become damaged, it’s not the person choosing to forget.

Even when names and faces aren’t recognised, feelings often remain. They can still feel love. Comfort. Safety.

Moments like this can feel overwhelming for families.
But small changes in how you respond can make a difference.

Key things to keep in mind:

- Don’t quiz them: Avoid asking, “Do you know who I am?”

- Use gentle prompts: Photos or familiar objects can help spark feelings.

- Focus on connection: Prioritise warmth and reassurance over correction.

- Allow yourself to grieve: This loss is real, and it’s okay to feel it.

- Seek support: Talk to a counsellor, support group or trusted friend.

Supporting someone through this stage of dementia isn’t easy. But focusing on feelings rather than facts can help preserve dignity and strengthen connection.

We’ve put together some additional practical caregiver tips here: https://www.elder.org/articles/family-support/help-for-caregivers-accepting-support-from-others/

20/02/2026

For this week’s Elder roundup, we wanted to dedicate it to something we’ve been doing a lot of, something that is simple but powerful: talking.

For some time now, we’ve been putting real effort into recognising and communicating the day-to-day struggles families experience, not just the big moments, but the quiet ones too.

The endless uncertainty and questions.

The feeling of trying to hold everything together while figuring it out as you go.

Supporting a loved one through health changes isn’t something most of us feel prepared for. And that’s exactly why conversation matters.

We’ve been connecting with our community, especially families who need clear, accessible information and reassurance. To help people feel heard. To make information easier to understand. And to create space for honest conversation about things like dementia, confusion, care and beyond.

Let’s keep talking.

19/02/2026

Sundowning vs Delirium: understanding the difference and why it matters

When confusion gets worse later in the day, many families assume it’s just dementia progressing.

Sometimes, it’s sundowning.

But sometimes, it could be delirium, and that’s different.

Delirium usually comes on suddenly and is often linked to an underlying medical issue like infection, dehydration, or medication changes. It may need urgent attention.

When to act quickly

Call 111 or 999 if the person:

- Becomes suddenly confused or disoriented
- Starts hallucinating or behaving very out of character
- Is unusually drowsy or difficult to wake
- Has a sudden, severe change in mood or agitation
- Shows signs of infection (fever, chills, pain when passing urine)
- Has had a fall or head injury alongside confusion

Sudden, unusual behaviour is not just normal ageing.

What you can do:

- Know what’s “normal” for them
- Check for signs of infection (UTIs are common triggers)
- Keep them hydrated
- Monitor any new or changed medications
- Stay calm and reassuring
- Make a note of when changes started

If confusion follows a daily evening pattern, it may be sundowning.
You can read more about that here: https://www.elder.org/articles/dementia-care/dementia-care-what-is-sundowning/

If it’s sudden, severe, or out of character, seek medical advice.

17/02/2026

Early Onset Dementia: how to support someone through it

When dementia affects someone under 65, it can feel especially unexpected and overwhelming, for the person diagnosed and for the people around them.

Early Onset Dementia (also called Young Onset Dementia) brings unique challenges, often impacting work, family life, independence, and relationships at a time when people may still be very active.

Supporting someone through it isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about taking small, practical steps that help them feel understood, connected, and supported.

Some key ways to help someone living with Early Onset Dementia:

- Encourage hobbies, social groups, or volunteering to maintain purpose
- Keep simple routines that balance confidence, safety, and independence
- Build a strong support network through family, friends, and local groups
- Communicate clearly with patience, focusing on strengths rather than limitations

Early Onset Dementia can be isolating, but no one should face it alone. With the right support, people can continue to live with meaning, connection, and dignity.

To learn more, read our guide: https://www.elder.org/articles/dementia-care/early-onset-dementia-support/

16/02/2026

Did you know the flu jab is available until March 2026 - and more people are eligible than you might think?

Winter health is still very much a priority, and with cold weather putting extra pressure on older people and the NHS, simple steps like vaccination can make a real difference.

You may be eligible if you:

-Are 65+
- Have a long-term condition (heart, lung or kidney)
- Live with someone who is immunosuppressed
- Care for someone vulnerable - paid or unpaid

Flu can be far more serious in winter, especially for those most at risk. Protect yourself and help protect the people around you.

NHS London

15/02/2026

Alzheimer’s disease: 11 early signs to look out for

When someone you love starts experiencing changes in memory or behaviour, it can be difficult to know what’s normal ageing and what might be something more.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, but its early signs aren’t always obvious.

While occasional forgetfulness can be part of growing older, consistent changes in memory, thinking, language, or daily tasks may signal something that needs further support.

Some early signs of Alzheimer’s can include:

- Forgetting recent events or repeating questions
- Struggling with planning or managing finances
- Finding familiar tasks suddenly difficult
- Losing track of dates, time or place
- Difficulty finding the right words
- Misplacing items in unusual places

Everyone’s experience is different, and symptoms can develop gradually over time.

Recognising the signs early can help families seek advice, plan ahead, and access the right support.

To read all 11 signs and learn more, visit our guide:
https://www.elder.org/articles/dementia-care/dementia-care-11-signs-of-alzheimers/