Caring for Someone With Dementia at Home
Caring for someone with dementia at home: practical strategies, the support and funding available in Australia, and how to look after yourself.
Understanding what's happening
Practical strategies for daily life
Making the home safer
The funding that helps
Specialist dementia support
Looking after yourself
Frequently asked questions
How is dementia care at home funded in Australia?
Usually through Support at Home, where a provider coordinates services like personal care, nursing, domestic help, social support and respite, tailored to the person's needs. Equipment and home modifications can be funded separately through the AT-HM scheme. Start with an assessment via My Aged Care…
What support is there for dementia carers?
Dementia Support Australia offers free 24-hour help with changed behaviours on 1800 699 799, and Dementia Australia provides information and counselling on 1800 100 500. Carer Gateway (1800 422 737) offers counselling, peer support and respite. You may also qualify for Carer Payment or Carer…
How do I manage difficult behaviours?
Keep routines predictable, communicate simply and calmly, reduce noise and clutter, and respond to the emotion behind words rather than correcting facts. When behaviour escalates, staying calm helps more than arguing. Dementia Support Australia can help you understand triggers and offer tailored…
How do I avoid carer burnout?
Take real breaks using respite care, whether in-home or a short residential stay, and access free counselling and peer support through Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737. Check your eligibility for carer payments, accept help from others, and reach out early rather than waiting for a crisis.