The Post-Diagnostic Support needs of Family Members and Friends who Provide Care and Support

Families and friends of the person with the diagnosis of dementia also require post-diagnostic support. Taking on a support role for a person living with dementia can be a daunting task. It can also become more difficult over time if the person has increased care and support needs that were not initially anticipated. The person providing care may require the support of services and others to enable them to fulfil their caregiving roles. Families provide the main source of support to people living with dementia and providing them with timely support can enable them to continue caring over time. The adjustments and losses that family members may experience are considered in this chapter, as are the different characteristics that individual care partners may have that impact on their experience and ability to provide care and support to the person living with dementia. The importance of providing support to family members is highlighted by the personal account of a family member who has experience of providing care to two people living with dementia, illustrating the importance of remembering to provide support to the care partners of those with the diagnosis.