In this episode of The Long Goodbye, Graeme is joined by Angela, a home care provider who played a significant role in supporting his family during their dementia journey.
Together, they discuss the realities of introducing home care into the family home, the emotional challenges of accepting support, and the guilt many carers feel when they realise they can't do everything alone. Graeme reflects on his family's experience of navigating council services, finding the right care provider, and learning to trust others with his mum's care.
The conversation also explores what quality home care should look like, the importance of person-centred care, how carers support entire families rather than just individuals, and why asking for help is often one of the bravest decisions a family can make.
Key Highlights
- Why families often wait too long before seeking support.
- The emotional impact of introducing carers into the family home.
- Graeme's experiences with both poor and excellent home care services.
- What person-centred home care really looks like.
- How carers support not only the person with dementia but their entire family.
- The importance of care plans, trust, continuity, and communication.
- Social support, companionship, and helping people remain active and connected.
- Knowing when home care is no longer enough and a care home may be needed.
- Practical advice on finding reputable care providers and navigating available funding.
- Recognition of the vital role unpaid carers play every day.
This episode shines a spotlight on one of the most overlooked parts of the dementia journey: accepting help. It's an honest conversation about home care, caregiver burnout, trust, and how the right support can transform life for both the person living with dementia and their family.
If this episode raises any difficult emotions or concerns for you, please remember that support is available. Whether you're living with dementia, caring for a loved one, or coping with the impact of a diagnosis, you don't have to face it alone. For information, advice, and practical support, contact Alzheimer Scotland's Dementia Helpline on 0808 808 3000 or visit alzscot.org.
If you're struggling with your mental wellbeing, support is also available through Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 and Samaritans on 116 123, available 24 hours a day.
Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and there are people ready to listen and support you
What is The Long Goodbye with Graeme Sutherland?
The Long Goodbye is a podcast for anyone whose life has been touched by Alzheimer's disease or dementia.
Hosted by Graeme Sutherland, the series brings together personal stories, expert insight and honest conversations with families, carers, advocates and healthcare professionals who understand the realities of living with dementia.
Inspired by Graeme's own family's journey following his mum's Alzheimer's diagnosis at just 59 years old, the podcast explores the challenges, emotions and questions that so many families face every day.
Through powerful interviews and shared experiences, listeners can expect practical advice, emotional support and reassurance that they are not alone. From navigating a new diagnosis and caring for a loved one, to celebrating moments of connection and resilience, The Long Goodbye shines a light on the people behind the diagnosis and the communities supporting them.
Whether you're living with dementia, caring for someone who is, working in healthcare, or simply looking to better understand the condition, this podcast offers compassion, guidance and hope through every stage of the journey.
Because while dementia can feel isolating, no family should have to face it alone.