Topic guides: Long distance caring: Content

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Dementia friendly communities
The Dementia-Friendly Communities program aims to address the stigma, isolation and discrimination experienced by many people living with dementia. We do this through the development of inclusive communities that enable people living with dementia to live well.

Living alone
If you have been diagnosed with dementia, and you live alone, this Help Sheet may be useful.

Visiting someone with dementia
Information about how to stay connected either in person or virtually.

Living alone with dementia by Dementia Australia
Publication Date: 2013
The growing number of people living alone, coupled with the increasing number of people with dementia, suggests that the number of people with dementia who live alone is set to rise. People with dementia, when well supported, can continue to live at home alone. However, they can be at heightened risk of economic insecurity, loneliness and depression and have an increased need for community-based or residential aged care. The importance of timely diagnosis and early intervention for all people with dementia, and particularly for those who live alone, cannot be overstated. The earlier community care services are accessed and supports are put in place, the better chance a person with dementia has to live at home in a safe and familiar environment.
The Dementia Guide by Dementia Australia
Publication Date: 2024
For people living with dementia, their families and carers. The Dementia Guide is an important resource for any person impacted by any form of dementia, of any age. The Guide contains information about the impact dementia may have on a person, the treatment, support and services they may need.
The 4th edition of this guide is now available to read online, download a pdf, listen to an audio version or request a print copy.

So far away : twenty questions for long-distance caregivers
Publication Date: 2006
So Far Away often refers to caregiving for aging parents but, in fact, this booklet offers tips you can use no matter who you are caring for, be it an older relative, family friend, or former neighbor.
The booklet is organized in a question/answer format. Each of the 20 commonly asked questions has a brief, stand–alone answer. There’s also a resource list at the end that can help you find more information.

Distance caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia: a phenomenological study
Findings - Six general themes were derived from quotations from participants, revealing different aspects of the distance caregiving experience. Findings indicated that participants spent much time managing and coordinating the care of their relative. Participants indicated a wish to provide information on their relative that could help healthcare professionals provide effective care, and felt that the process of providing care to their relative impacted their professional and personal lives, including developing deeper connections with their relative and others. According to participants, the experience of caregiving, and balancing caregiving demands with other life demands, led to personal changes and growth.
Edwards, M. (2014). Distance Caregivers of People with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia: A Phenomenological Study. British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 77(4), 174–180.

Eight Tips for Long-Distance Caregiving (National Institute on Aging)
Long-distance caregiving presents unique challenges. If you find yourself in the long-distance caregiving role, here is a summary of things to keep in mind.
Caring from a distance - Dementia UK
Caring for a person with dementia when you do not live nearby can be challenging. For example, you may not be able to pop in regularly or respond to issues quickly. However, you can still play an important part in supporting the person.
Carer Gateway
Carers can get a wide range of help – from counselling and peer support groups, to respite care, home help and equipment.
Caring for someone living with dementia - My Aged Care
If you’re a carer for someone living with dementia, it can be helpful to learn more about the condition. There are resources and support services available to help you in your role.