Hi Jmynunn21 and thank you for your post.

I’m really sorry you’re worried about someone close to you going through this. It can feel very upsetting when someone you care about starts to change, and you’re not sure why.

It can be very hard to tell if someone’s changes are because the cancer is getting worse or because they are feeling very worried, upset, or due to confusion. Doctors and nurses examine several factors to determine whether the changes are due to cancer progression or dementia. They look at the treatment they have had and how the cancer has been behaving. They will also look at recent scans or tests to see if the cancer has changed or to diagnose dementia and how the person is behaving day‑to‑day such as memory problems, confusion, or feeling very anxious.

Alzheimer’s Society have information on tests and scans to diagnose dementia which you may find helpful to read.

They will assess other health problems such as infections, pain, or side effects from medicines, which can also cause confusion. Often there is more than one cause, so the team will try to look at the whole picture.

If you feel the person now needs 24‑hour support, you can ask for help. Speak to their GP, hospital specialist or palliative care team (if they have been referred) and explain what you are finding difficult. Keep a detailed, daily diary of the anxiety, agitation, and forgetfulness episodes, including times and specific behaviours. Highlight any safety risks and explicitly state if the patient is wandering, forgetting to eat/take medication, or exhibiting high agitation.

Request a Care Needs Assessment from Adult Social Care. Contact the GP, palliative care team, or hospital team to request a formal reassessment of needs, emphasizing the need for 24-hour safety supervision. At present there is no provision for 24 hour care at home, unless privately paid for. If you feel your loved one needs this level of care then a care home may need to be considered. Ask about extra help such as carers coming in, equipment, or respite care.

I hope this information helps.

Please get back to us if you need any more information or support

It might help to talk things through with one of our nurses on the helpline. You can call for free on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Kind regards,

Tina