Currently, it's estimated that nearly 300,000 people are working in Australia as unpaid caregivers for adult family members with dementia. To help with the day-to-day routines of caregiving, the Australian government allocated more than $200 million to increase support services for caregivers and train job seekers on how to be a caregiver for someone with dementia.

Dementia caregivers have a very demanding task. In many cases, they're working around the clock with little outside support. But there are ways to understand dementia better and learn more about how to be a caregiver for a family member with dementia.

Let's take a look to find out how to help dementia caregivers.

Dementia is a blanket term for several neurological illnesses. These include Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body disease and others. In some cases, dementia can also be a result of head trauma.

Symptoms of dementia are much more than forgetfulness. Confusion, paranoia, wandering, loss of coordination, and speech difficulties are almost always present in dementia cases.

What every dementia caregiver must know is that communication with your loved one's physician is critical. They can help you learn more about dementia, what medications may help with symptoms, and what to expect as the disease progresses.

Dementia caregivers have a lot on their plates, especially when the affected person is a family member. It's difficult to watch someone you love deteriorate before your very eyes. But it's also necessary to avoid unrealistic expectations.

Those with dementia aren't always able to understand the passage of time and what's happening around them. So try to keep your loved one's environment familiar and stick to a schedule. It's also helpful to verbalise things as they're happening.

Reminding your loved one of the time of day can ease anxiety. For example, you can say, "Good morning! It's 8 o'clock. Now we'll get dressed and have breakfast."

Dementia can be challenging. When a dementia caregiver understands that, they can focus on managing symptoms and making their loved one as comfortable as possible.

Dementia caregivers have a demanding job that often takes most of their time. It's a 24-hour-per-day job, and caregivers must take care of themselves. Carving out the time for that requires some creativity.

This is an excellent opportunity to let your friends and family know how to support a dementia caregiver. Ask a friend to sit with your loved one while you shower or take a quick walk outside. A family member can help with meal prep so you can have quick, healthy meals.

Also, join an online support group or speak with a therapist familiar with caregiving and dementia. Your mental health is vital during this time.

When caring for someone with dementia, finding something that piques their interest can be challenging. However, many people with dementia still have a great deal of long-term memory. Use this to your advantage.

Try looking at old photo albums. You might find that photos spark memories, and they'll recall specifics about the images. And you, as the dementia caregiver, may learn more about your loved one and your family through their memories.

Listening to music together is incredibly beneficial for those with dementia. Choose songs that were popular during their younger years and see how they react. You may find that the music triggers fond memories and can also help soothe agitation.

Caregiving is hard work, both physically and mentally. Burnout happens often, and it's imperative to recognize the signs and know when you need a break to recharge.

If you feel irritable, overly tired, distracted or anxious, it's time to take a break. Burnout is serious, and that stress level can weaken your immune system and worsen the situation.

Arrange for respite care, either through an agency or a family member. Try to schedule respite care regularly so you'll have something to look forward to. Whether it's just for a few hours or a luxurious night away, respite care gives you the time to rest and recharge, making you a better caregiver when you return.

For many dementia caregivers, the day-to-day management of their loved one's financial and legal affairs adds to their stress. Suppose you don't have legal access to your loved one's banking information or medical records. In that case, you may not be able to give them the best possible care.

Speaking with an attorney is the best place to start. They can help you understand the process of powers of attorney, living wills and the other legal aspects of being a dementia caregiver.

The process takes time, but the peace of mind is worth every minute.

No instruction manual tells you everything about how to be a dementia caregiver. Many people have little prior knowledge of caregiving before they find themselves in this situation.

No one is perfect, which is essential for dementia caregivers to remember. Ask for help when you need it, share with other caregivers to learn that you're not alone, and understand that you're doing your best.

Even on the most challenging days, remember that you're caring for someone you love. Even if they can't always express their gratitude, be aware that, on some level, your loved one understands and is grateful.

We understand that being a dementia caregiver has its challenges. But there are ways to make the task a little bit easier.

Music wellness has shown exceptional results. Listening to music activates parts of the brain associated with memory. Our custom-designed playlists consider your loved one's age, culture, and the places they lived to curate a list of songs they'll find familiar.

Nothing makes a caregiver happy like seeing their loved one experience a little bit of joy. If you know someone caring for a loved one and have been wondering how to support a dementia caregiver, consider the gift of Vera’s music.

At Vera, our aim is to help not only people with dementia but also those who provide them care. Try Vera for 14 days and experience the benefits of integrating music into your caregiving practice.