Dementia Care at Home: A Complete Guide
Dementia care at home guide for 2026: the support and funding available, how to make the home safer, where to get help, and how to support carers.
Living well at home with dementia
Funding dementia care
Specialist dementia support
Making the home safer
Managing changed behaviours
Looking after the carer
Planning ahead
Frequently asked questions
How is dementia care at home funded?
Mainly through Support at Home, which can attract higher funding classifications for complex needs. It covers personal care, nursing, allied health, domestic help, social support and respite. Clinical care is fully funded, and equipment and home modifications come through a separate scheme.
Where can families get dementia-specific help?
Dementia Australia, through the National Dementia Support Program, offers information, counselling, education and carer support. Specialist behaviour-support services help when changed behaviours are distressing, and specialist dementia care programs exist for very complex needs. Start with an…
How can I make the home safer for someone with dementia?
Reduce falls risk by removing hazards and improving lighting, aid orientation with signage and routine, add safety measures like stove alarms, and support memory with clocks and calendars. An occupational therapist can tailor changes, funded through the home modifications scheme.
How do I cope as a dementia carer?
Use the support that exists. The Carer Gateway offers free counselling, coaching, peer support and respite. Reach out early when behaviours are hard rather than managing alone. Looking after yourself is part of sustainable care, not a sign of failing to cope.