Caring for Someone with Dementia: A Complete Guide for Carers in Australia

Meta Description: Caring for someone with dementia can be rewarding yet challenging. Learn practical tips for dementia care, self-care advice for carers, and where to find carer support and respite services in Australia.

Understanding What Dementia Care Involves

Caring for a person with dementia is a role filled with compassion, patience and adaptability. Whether you’re a paid caregiver or an unpaid family member, you may find yourself managing many aspects of daily life for your loved one.

Common caregiving responsibilities include:

• Ensuring medications are taken correctly and on time

• Organising shopping, meals and household tasks

• Helping with bathing, dressing, toileting and incontinence care

As dementia progresses, the person’s needs often increase. You may also need to manage legal or financial matters, which can change as their condition evolves.

Many carers balance these duties with work, study and family life — which can make dementia care physically, emotionally and financially demanding. Looking after yourself is crucial so you can continue to provide the best possible care.

Managing the Challenges of Being a Dementia Carer

Caring for someone with dementia can be overwhelming at times, but maintaining your own wellbeing helps you stay strong and capable. Here are some practical self-care strategies for carers:

• Eat a balanced, healthy diet

• Exercise regularly and get enough sleep

• Stay connected with friends and social networks

• Create a daily routine that includes breaks and relaxation time

  
  

Try to share responsibilities when possible. Include family, friends or community services in your caregiving plan. Building a reliable support network helps prevent burnout and keeps your caregiving sustainable.

Support for Dementia Carers

You don’t have to face the journey alone. In Australia, there are many forms of carer support available:

• Peer support groups – connect with others who understand dementia care

• Counselling – professional guidance to manage stress and emotions

• Respite care – temporary relief so you can take time for yourself

When people offer to help, accept it. Even small gestures — like bringing a meal, cleaning, or managing paperwork — can make a big difference in your daily routine.

Across Australia, local carer support groups meet regularly, providing connection, advice and emotional relief for people in similar situations.

Financial Support for Carers

If you’re caring for someone with dementia, you may be eligible for financial assistance such as:

• Carer Allowance

• Carer Payment

  
  

To find out more or check your eligibility, visit the Services Australia website.

What Is Respite Care?

Respite care gives carers a much-needed break while ensuring the person with dementia continues to receive quality care. It can be provided:

• At home, through visiting care workers

• At a care centre, for a few hours, days or overnight stays

Taking regular breaks isn’t selfish — it’s essential. Rest helps you recover physically and emotionally, allowing you to continue providing compassionate care in the long term.

In-Home Dementia Care and Adult Day Centres

In-home care allows people with dementia to stay in familiar surroundings while receiving support. Services can include:

• Companion services – social visits and supervision

• Personal care – help with bathing, dressing and toileting

• Homemaker services – meal preparation, cleaning and shopping

• Skilled nursing care – assistance with medications or medical needs

Adult day centres offer structured programs and social interaction for people living with dementia. Activities often include music therapy, art sessions and gentle exercise. While it may take time for your loved one to adjust, these centres can improve their wellbeing and give carers valuable time off.

Long-Term Dementia Care Options

As dementia progresses, you might find that home care is no longer sufficient. Depending on your loved one’s needs and stage of dementia, long-term care options in Australia include:

• Retirement housing – for those in the early stages

• Assisted living – housing with supportive services and healthcare

• Nursing homes – 24-hour medical and personal care

• Alzheimer’s or dementia care units – specialised, secure environments within aged care facilities

Transitioning to long-term care can be an emotional decision. Feelings of guilt or uncertainty are normal, but gathering information and planning ahead helps ensure your loved one receives the care they need.

Dementia Care Resources and Support in Australia

There are many reliable organisations and services that can support you in your caring role:

• National Dementia Helpline: 1800 100 500 – for information and support

• Carer Gateway: Tips, counselling and financial advice for carers

• My Aged Care: Information on aged care services and eligibility

• NDIS and Veterans’ Home Care – for eligible carers and recipients

• Carer Conversations – free in-person or online groups for carers of people with frontotemporal dementia, via Dementia Support Australia

  
  

For more dementia education and awareness resources, visit:

• Dementia Australia

• Alzheimer’s Association

  
  

Final Thoughts: Looking After Yourself as You Care for Someone with Dementia

Caring for a loved one with dementia is both rewarding and demanding. It takes time, patience and emotional strength. Remember — your wellbeing matters too.

By accessing support services, taking breaks and staying connected, you can continue to provide compassionate, sustainable care. You are not alone — help and understanding are always available.

You can speak to one of our nurses today for more information and to discuss care options. Our experienced team can guide you through available services and help you find the right support for your situation.