More than 1,700 people in Waterford are estimated to be living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia.

Home care provider Dovida says around 1,729 people and their families are affected across the county.

The organisation is sharing practical care techniques ahead of World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21st.

Its National Caregiver Training Manager, Aisling Cooke, says families can often find changes in memory, communication, behaviour and daily routines difficult to navigate.

She says one of the most important parts of dementia care is understanding a person’s life story and using familiar memories, hobbies and interests to help with communication.

Other techniques include avoiding arguments, protecting a person’s dignity, asking for their opinion and doing activities together.

Ms. Cooke says distraction and redirection can also help when someone becomes upset or fixated on something.

She said activities such as music, gardening, photo albums, puzzles and arts and crafts can help people living with dementia feel safe, secure and valued.

World Alzheimer’s Day takes place on September 21st.