A happy home with dad

Jen’s story:

Caring for my wonderful dad Eddie as he lived with dementia completely changed me – for the better. I have learned so much about myself, what I’m capable of, and how much joy and challenges dementia can bring to the person living with dementia and everyone close to them.

But more than anything I’ve learned that more needs to be done. More research, more support, more conversation and more understanding.

My experience of looking after dad showed that, with the right support, you really can live well with dementia. Yes there were tough days, but we also shared so much fun and laughter together.

I was very lucky to have great support, from my sister Morag, my husband Darren, daughter Mia, from health and social care teams, and from Alzheimer Scotland’s 24-hour freephone dementia helpline. But I know that not everyone is so lucky, and that needs to change.

My dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease just as the pandemic started and a few years later me, my husband and daughter moved into his house to care for him, with dad living in a lovely big purpose-built cabin in the garden where we knew he was safe and comfortable.

I was fortunate to be able to take redundancy from work to care for dad full time and I did my best to do an activity with him every day. Dad had always been a very active person, and even after his diagnosis he was always up for doing something.

He loved our little adventures, even if it was just a walk around the local park, a trip to an art class, or playing tambourines while watching his favourite singer Andre Rieu. We had a blast, although there were times I had to change or cancel plans last minute if dad wasn’t quite at his best.

Dad passed away in 2025, aged 83, and we all miss him every day. He was such a caring person who always helped others.

It’s inspired me to continue the journey I started with dad by doing what I can to help other people living with dementia and their carers. I’ve become a member of Alzheimer Scotland and joined their National Dementia Carers Action Network (NDCAN) to push for change.

It’s great to know Alzheimer Scotland are fighting the cause and doing so much great work to make dementia a priority, because it’s something that is only going to increase. We need to be ready for it and I’m keen to do anything I can to help.