Table of Contents:
Quote of the day
Your insights
Interesting stories this week
The 30-Second Clock Test: A Helpful Early Screening Tool
Responding to YOU!
It doesn’t get easier. You get stronger.
A quick favour — your insight would really help other families
I’m working on something new that could improve how local elder care professionals (for example, lawyers, homecare providers, and care homes) support families facing Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Before we move ahead, I want to make sure this is genuinely helpful from a caregiver’s point of view — not just what professionals think families want.
I’ve put together a very short, 30-second survey with a small example of the type of information a local professional might send.
Your opinion would really help shape this and make sure it supports families in the right way.
Thank you — truly — for being part of this community and helping us improve the support carers receive.
It means more than you know.
Interesting Stories This Week:
Five ways to reduce your risk of dementia
The revolutionary test changing Alzheimer’s diagnosis
Dementia care gaps could lead to avoidable nursing home stays
Daffodils could hold the key to dementia treatment
Smart AI assistant aims to help people live independently with dementia
The 30-Second Clock Test: A Helpful Early Screening Tool
Subtle cognitive changes can be hard to spot — but one quick drawing task may help highlight whether someone is having difficulty with visuospatial or planning skills.
It’s called the Clock Drawing Test, and specialists use versions of it as part of dementia screenings.
🕒 How it works
Take a blank sheet of paper, pen, and a timer
Draw a traditional clock face
Set the time to 10 minutes past 11
Try to complete it within 30 seconds
Once done, you can look for these signs that someone may have struggled:
✔ Were all twelve numbers included?
✔ Are the numbers in the correct order?
✔ Are they spaced evenly around the circle?
✔ Are the clock hands the correct lengths and pointing to the right time?
✔ Did the drawing feel rushed or challenging to finish in time?
This test does not diagnose dementia, but it can indicate when further assessment might be needed. If concerns arise, contact a GP or memory clinic for professional evaluation.
Early recognition gives access to earlier support — and the best chance to plan ahead with dignity and confidence.
A Problem Shared is a Problem Halved
Every week, we share an honest story from a caregiver — the things most people are too afraid to say out loud.
This Week’s Caregiver Story-
“He keeps hiding his medication — I don’t know what he’s taken, and I’m scared he’ll get ill.”
Harvey says:
This is a situation many carers face, and it can feel frightening when you’re unsure whether medication has been taken safely.
Often, the behaviour comes from fear, confusion or a loss of control — tablets can look unfamiliar or threatening.
Try offering medication in a calm, distraction-free moment, perhaps alongside something comforting like a favourite snack or warm drink.
Pill organisers with clear days and times can also help you track what has been taken — and reduce guesswork.
If the worry becomes overwhelming, speak to your GP or pharmacist about alternative forms of medication — patches, liquids or simplifying the routine.
Please remember: this isn’t a failure on your part.
You’re doing everything you can to keep them healthy, and reaching out for advice is a strong and responsible step.
Harvey
If something’s been on your heart lately, let us know. We read every word. Your voice could offer comfort to someone else navigating the same journey.