Caring for a Loved One

Begin by talking with your loved one and their health care provider about changes you are noticing. Clarify preferences, gather key documents, and identify immediate needs.

Understanding Your Role

• Learn about the condition and what to expect
• Identify who is on the care team and how to communicate
• Plan ahead for safety, transportation, and daily routines

Build a Care Team

Involve family, friends, health professionals, and community services. Share tasks and keep a simple plan with contacts and schedules.

Care for Yourself

Caring for someone can be rewarding and stressful. Make time for sleep, exercise, and breaks. Ask for help and consider respite options.

Advance Planning

Discuss advance directives, powers of attorney, and financial planning early. Advance planning allows people to make their own decisions about important topics like finances, health care and living arrangements before the need arises.

Helpful Resources

• Virginia Dementia Road Map
  A stage-by-stage guide to the dementia journey including information for caregivers, understanding the role, and caregiver self-care.
• Taking Care—A Resource Guide for Caregivers
  A general guide for caregivers in Virginia including information on Medicare and Medicaid, services available and dementia-specific information.
• Caregiver Fact Sheets
  18 one-page guides to specific challenges that may arise when caring for someone living with dementia, in English and Spanish.
• Advance Planning Guides and Information
  Four guides to advance planning with dementia, and additional information about things to consider early on in the disease.
• Caregiver Support Groups
  Caregiver support groups offer a safe place to share experiences, ask questions, and connect with others who understand the challenges of caring for someone with dementia. These groups can reduce stress and help caregivers feel less alone. Find about in-person support groups in your area by contacting your local Area Agency on Aging. Many organizations offer virtual support groups. See additional resources below.
• Caregiver Education and Training
  Learn what works. Education programs help caregivers build skills for everyday care—like communication, safety, and handling behavior changes. The more you know, the easier it is to provide confident, compassionate care.