Practical guidance for caring at home.

01 · Home safety

Start with a safer home

A calm walk-through can help identify everyday risks before support begins.

• Keep pathways and stairways clear.
• Improve lighting near entrances, bathrooms and stairs.
• Use non-slip surfaces and keep frequently used items easy to reach.
• Ask an appropriate health professional for advice about mobility or equipment.

Learn more: Health Canada fall-prevention guidance.

02 · Dementia-friendly support

Connect before you correct

Small communication choices can make conversations calmer and more respectful.

• Reduce noise and distractions.
• Speak face to face using short, clear sentences.
• Offer a couple of familiar choices.
• Pay attention to tone, body language and signs of discomfort.

Learn more: Alzheimer Society of Canada communication tips.

03 · Respite

Caregivers need care too

Respite can give a primary caregiver planned relief while the person receiving support remains safe and comfortable.

• Notice when fatigue, stress or isolation is building.
• Plan short breaks before a crisis.
• Write down routines and important contacts for a clear handover.
• Ask what kind of help would make the next week more manageable.

Learn more: Government of New Brunswick respite information.

04 · Choosing support

Questions to ask an agency

A good first conversation should make services, boundaries and communication clear.

• What services are available in my community?
• How do you assess safety and create a support plan?
• What training and screening do workers receive?
• How are schedule changes and concerns communicated?
• What is private-pay, and what is included in the rate?

05 · Medication boundaries

Clarify what “medication support” means

Reminders and prompting are different from independently administering medication. Ask exactly what a worker is authorized and trained to do.

• Keep the client’s medication plan with the appropriate professional.
• Confirm how reminders, prompting and packaging will be handled.
• Ask who to contact when a dose is missed or a concern appears.
• For an emergency, call 911.

06 · Planning ahead

Start the conversation early

Families do not have to wait for a crisis to explore support.

• Write down routines, preferences and important contacts.
• Discuss privacy, dignity, cultural needs and communication style.
• Identify which tasks the family wants to keep and which tasks need help.
• Use a consultation to decide whether the service is a good fit.