The GEMS States:

GEM States are not a diagnostic tool and cannot identify the type or stage of dementia. This article explains why the framework still matters for health and care professionals, and how it supports calmer, clearer and more compassionate communication during brief, pressured encounters.

Unmet Needs in Dementia:

Behaviour that challenges often reflects unmet needs that the person with dementia can no longer express through words. This article explores what distress-based communication really means, including phrases like “I want to go home”, elopement and wandering, emotional logic, and how the Herbert Protocol can support safety. Practical suggestions help carers respond with curiosity, compassion, and confidence.

Carer Resentment

Resentment is one of the least spoken about but most common experiences in dementia caring. It often builds quietly as responsibilities increase, roles become entangled, and personal identity begins to fade. This article explores how resentment and co-dependent patterns develop, why they matter, and the practical steps that can help prevent exhaustion, burnout, and relationship strain.

Sorry Seems to be the Hardest Word!

In everyday British life, apologising is almost automatic, yet in a caring relationship it can feel confusing, unfair, or emotionally uncomfortable — especially when nothing appears to be the carer’s fault. This article explores why apologising can be so difficult, the difference between factual and emotional logic, and how gentle, well-chosen apologies can help soothe distress, reduce conflict, and strengthen connection. It offers practical guidance to help carers reframe “I’m sorry” as a compassionate tool rather than a sign of blame.

How Do We Know What Each Part of the Brain Does?

Understanding how scientists know what different parts of the brain do can make dementia feel less mysterious and far more manageable. This article explains, in clear and reassuring terms, how knowledge about the brain has developed — from early observations of injuries and strokes to modern scans like MRI, fMRI, PET and SPECT. It explores how these discoveries help us make sense of the changes seen in different types of dementia and offers practical insights for carers and professionals supporting someone day-to-day.