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Types of care

Dementia care: what good looks like

How to judge whether a provider genuinely understands dementia, beyond the word on the website.

6 min read

Consistency matters more than facilities

For someone living with dementia, familiar faces and a predictable routine reduce distress. Ask how many different carers will visit in a week, how handovers work, and what happens when the regular carer is away.

Ask about training and behaviour support

Ask what dementia training staff complete, who leads it, and how the team responds when someone is distressed, refuses personal care or is awake at night. Good providers answer with examples, not policies.

Check the inspection detail, not just the rating

CQC reports include how well a service is caring and responsive. On CareLink each profile shows the domain ratings and last inspection date, so you can see whether strengths lie in the areas that matter to you.

Official sources

Guidance only — it isn't financial or legal advice, and rules and figures change. Always check the official source or speak to an adviser.

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