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• Nerves & brain >> Carers of people with dementia >> Caring with young children >> Interview 21 >> Would have been more patient with her husband had she known more about the nature of the disease.

Her husband developed Picks' disease when he was 57. The patchy nature of his dementia made it difficult to convince people that his problems were real. Delay in getting the diagnosis meant they experienced extreme difficulties in accessing his health insurance.

• Nerves & brain >> Carers of people with dementia >> Men caring for partners >> Interview 07 >> His information needs changed over time - from physiological and psychological explanations to how to manage the caring role.

Gradual onset mistaken for depression. Diagnosis given jointly to husband and wife. Slow progression. Problem with restlessness and wandering. Very involved with the local Alzheimers disease society. He tries to involve her in decisions where possible. Initially prescribed antidepressants later given trial of Reminyl. Later benifited from sedatives and sleeping tablets.

• Nerves & brain >> Carers of people with dementia >> Women caring for partners >> Interview 42 >> Felt that help with company and activities for her ex husband would have been more useful than domestic assistance.

Became ill in his 50's. Suspected his own diagnosis but was told it was depression. Lived alone and attended day hospital for a year. Then in sheltered accommodation. Finally had to be sectioned and was in psychiatric hospital. Transferred to EMI home, still on Section 3, died 18 months later.

• Nerves & brain >> Carers of people with dementia >> Women caring for partners >> Interview 23 >> Describes how a good care plan has transformed her life and her relationship with her partner.

Has been able to cope with caring for him at home. He attends a day centre and he has regular respite care. Doesn't feel ready to consider full time residential care for him but has felt it necessary to look out for homes which might be suitable.