Louise Donaghy Private Care

24/02/2026

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

In Older Adults & People Living with Alzheimer’s or Dementia

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💡 Why UTIs Matter

In older adults — especially those living with dementia — a UTI may not present with typical symptoms like burning or pain.

Instead, the first signs are often sudden changes in behaviour or thinking.

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⚠️ Common Signs of a UTI in Dementia
• Sudden confusion or increased disorientation
• Hallucinations or delusional beliefs
• Increased agitation or aggression
• Withdrawal or unusual quietness
• Increased sleepiness or lethargy
• Refusing care or food
• Sudden increase in falls
• Strong-smelling or cloudy urine
• Increased frequency or urgency

🚩 A rapid change is a red flag.

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🧠 Why Does This Happen?

Infection causes inflammation in the body.
In people living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, the brain is already vulnerable.

Even a mild infection can trigger:
• Delirium
• Behavioural changes
• Increased cognitive decline

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🩺 What To Do If You Suspect a UTI

✔ Contact the GP promptly
✔ Request a urine sample test
✔ Monitor fluid intake
✔ Record behaviour changes
✔ Start antibiotics if prescribed

Early treatment often leads to noticeable improvement within 24–72 hours.

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💧 Prevention Tips
• Encourage regular hydration
• Support good personal hygiene
• Prompt regular toileting
• Avoid prolonged use of incontinence pads if possible
• Monitor for subtle changes

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❤️ Important Reminder

A sudden behaviour change is often medical — not “just the dementia.”

Always rule out infection first.

23/02/2026

I’ve been Nominated for proud of bucks awards🥹🥹🥹

Vote now! https://orlo.uk/KSSaZ

⭐ Proud of Bucks Awards 2026 - Nominations NOW OPEN! ⭐

Do you know someone making a real difference in your community?

A project, group or volunteer who deserves recognition for going above and beyond?

This is your chance to shine a spotlight on the people and initiatives that help make Buckinghamshire such a fantastic place to live.


✨ Award Categories

Nominate those who are making an impact in your areas:

- Newcomer Award – celebrating projects or groups launched in the last 18 months

- Environmental Impact Award – improving our local environment

- Improving Health & Wellbeing – supporting healthier, happier communities

- Reducing Social Isolation – helping people feel connected

- Town & Parish Council Community Award – council community projects

- Community Connectedness Award – bringing neighbours together

- Adult Volunteer of the Year – recognising dedicated volunteers

- Young Volunteer of the Year – recognising our younger volunteers

- School or College Community Contribution – education settings supporting their community

- Lifetime Achievement Award – honouring a lifetime of service to Buckinghamshire-led community projects

Help us celebrate the amazing work happening across Bucks. Nominate today and give someone the recognition they deserve.

Vote now using the link in the comments!




The Clare Foundation

23/02/2026

I’ve put together a little information sheet about the changes around food choices at the late stages of Dementia. I thought it might help explain why sweet foods are often preferred.

“In the later stages of dementia, it’s actually quite common for a person to lose interest in regular meals and instead gravitate toward sweets. This is often because their sense of taste or appetite changes over time, and sweet foods tend to be easier to recognize or comfort them. We want to make sure they’re still getting calories and staying nourished, but we also need to be patient and compassionate as these preferences shift.”

Follow for more interesting insights..

Louise Donaghy Private Care

23/02/2026

Supporting Delusional Beliefs in Alzheimer’s

A Guide for Families

When Your Loved One Believes Something That Isn’t “Real”

You may notice your loved one talking to photographs as if people are present, preparing meals for family members who are not there, saying relatives are visiting, or feeling responsible for caring for
others. These experiences can feel completely real to them.
This is common in Alzheimer’s.

Why Does This Happen?
Alzheimer’s affects how the brain processes time, memory and reality. Long-term memories are often stronger than short-term memory, and the brain struggles to distinguish past from present.

Emotional memories feel current, and familiar life roles (mother, host, carer) often re-emerge. A
photograph or memory can trigger a powerful feeling that loved ones are physically present.

Is It an Infection?
Sudden behavioural changes should always be checked medically. Possible signs of infection or
delirium include rapid change from usual behaviour, increased confusion over hours or days, agitation or distress, reduced appetite, sleepiness or extreme restlessness, and fever or physical symptoms. If unsure, contact the GP for medical review.

How Should You Respond?
Correcting or arguing often increases distress. Instead, acknowledge the feeling, validate the role, and gently redirect if needed. Step into their world rather than pulling them out of it.

When To Be Concerned
Seek advice if they become distressed or frightened, stop sleeping entirely, are unsafe (for example cooking overnight), are not eating or drinking, or there is sudden worsening.
Safety and wellbeing
always come first.

Louise Donaghy – Professional Care at Home
Louise Donaghy Private Care

23/02/2026

“Thanks Louise and thank you so much for organising Mum’s Eaves Court birthday celebrations! You really made Mum’s day!”
Clients Son N

Thank you N, that’s so kind of you to say ❤️ It was an absolute pleasure celebrating with her – she had the biggest smile and that’s what it’s all about. So glad she had a lovely day!

17/02/2026

“I would recommend Louise to anyone looking for a private carer in the Risborough area.
My Mum has Alzheimer’s, and she has been refusing carers, but Louise is such a kind and friendly person, my Mum has really bonded with her and misses her on the days she’s not there!
Louise has been really helpful to me also, she has given me advice, and she often messages me with updates of anything she feels I should know about. She’s just great, she’s absolutely the right person for my Mum- thank you Louise xx”

I feel incredibly grateful today.

I just want to say a huge thank you to my client’s daughter for these very kind words. Your support and trust mean so much to me.

It’s always my priority to make sure the people I care for feel safe, comfortable and genuinely supported — especially when living with Alzheimer’s can make accepting help so difficult at first. Hearing that your Mum feels happy and comfortable with me truly means the world.

Thank you for trusting me with her care. It’s an absolute privilege 💛

16/02/2026

Why This Role Matters

Recovery and wellbeing extend far beyond medical treatment. Day-to-day support, encouragement, and human connection play a crucial role in how individuals experience their recovery and ongoing quality of life.

My role exists to bridge the gap between clinical care and everyday living — supporting people to feel safe, valued, capable, and supported in their own homes and communities

Personal Values

I am guided by the following values:
• Dignity and respect
• Compassion and empathy
• Independence and empowerment
• Trust and reliability
• Kindness and professionalism

These values shape every interaction and decision I make in my work.

09/02/2026

09/02/2026

Personal Assistant & Rehabilitation Companion

I work as a Personal Assistant and Rehabilitation Companion, providing highly personalised, one-to-one support for individuals who require practical assistance, rehabilitation encouragement, and compassionate companionship to maintain independence, dignity, and quality of life.

My role sits at the intersection of personal assistance, rehabilitative support, and holistic care. I support individuals recovering from illness, injury, surgery, or managing long-term or age-related conditions, as well as those who benefit from structured daily support and consistent companionship. My approach is always person-centred, flexible, and guided by the individual’s goals, preferences, and abilities.

Rather than a task-focused model of care, I focus on enabling people to live well in their own homes and communities, supporting both physical recovery and emotional wellbeing.

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Purpose of the Role

The purpose of my role is to:
• Support independence rather than replace it
• Encourage confidence, motivation, and rehabilitation
• Provide practical assistance without removing autonomy
• Offer reliable companionship and emotional reassurance
• Promote dignity, choice, and control in everyday life

Every individual I support is unique. My work adapts to changing needs, energy levels, health conditions, and personal goals, ensuring care remains respectful, empowering, and responsive.

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Personal Assistant Support

As a Personal Assistant, I provide structured and practical support to help individuals manage their daily lives smoothly and with less stress.

This includes:
• Supporting daily routines such as morning and evening structure
• Assisting with organisation, planning, and time management
• Supporting correspondence, reminders, and appointment scheduling
• Accompanying individuals to appointments, meetings, or outings
• Supporting household tasks to maintain a safe, comfortable environment
• Acting as a reliable point of continuity in day-to-day life

My support is never intrusive. I work alongside individuals, encouraging them to remain actively involved in decisions and tasks wherever possible, adapting the level of assistance as confidence and ability grow.

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Rehabilitation Support

A core part of my role involves supporting rehabilitation and recovery following:
• Hospital discharge
• Surgery or injury
• Neurological events
• Periods of illness or reduced mobility
• Deconditioning or loss of confidence

I support rehabilitation in line with guidance provided by healthcare professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and medical teams.

This may include:
• Encouraging and supporting prescribed exercises
• Supporting mobility and safe movement within the home and community
• Reinforcing therapy routines in a calm and motivating way
• Encouraging pacing, rest, and energy conservation
• Supporting the rebuilding of daily living skills
• Promoting confidence following falls, illness, or hospital stays

I understand that rehabilitation is not only physical. Emotional resilience, confidence, and motivation are equally important. I provide steady encouragement without pressure, celebrating progress at the individual’s pace.

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Companionship and Emotional Wellbeing

Companionship is a vital element of recovery and wellbeing. Many individuals experience isolation, loss of confidence, or emotional challenges following illness, injury, or life changes.

As a Rehabilitation Companion, I offer:
• Meaningful conversation and social interaction
• Emotional reassurance and calm presence
• Support with re-engaging in hobbies, interests, and routines
• Accompaniment to social, cultural, or community activities
• Gentle encouragement to rebuild confidence outside the home

I value the importance of human connection and take time to build genuine, respectful relationships based on trust and consistency.

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Supporting Independence and Confidence

My role is centred on enabling individuals to:
• Retain control over their lives
• Make informed choices
• Feel capable rather than dependent
• Rebuild skills and routines gradually

I actively avoid “doing everything for someone” unless necessary. Instead, I support individuals to do as much as they can for themselves, offering guidance, reassurance, or physical support where appropriate.

This approach supports long-term wellbeing, reduces learned dependency, and builds confidence over time.

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Mobility and Community Access

I support individuals to remain active and engaged within their community, recognising the importance of movement, routine, and social connection.

This may include:
• Supporting safe walking and outdoor activity
• Accompanying individuals on local outings or errands
• Supporting use of mobility aids if required
• Encouraging gentle physical activity appropriate to ability
• Supporting confidence following falls or fear of movement

Community access is tailored to energy levels and personal goals, ensuring safety while promoting independence.

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Cognitive Stimulation and Mental Engagement

Where appropriate, I support cognitive stimulation and mental engagement, particularly for individuals experiencing:
• Cognitive decline
• Memory difficulties
• Reduced confidence following illness
• Changes in routine or social withdrawal

This may include:
• Conversation and reminiscence
• Supporting reading, writing, or puzzles
• Encouraging structured daily routines
• Supporting decision-making and orientation
• Engaging in meaningful activities linked to personal interests

My approach is calm, respectful, and never patronising.

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Professional Boundaries and Ethics

I work within clear professional boundaries, ensuring:
• Respect for privacy and confidentiality
• Clear communication with families and professionals
• Maintenance of dignity at all times
• Safe, ethical, and accountable practice

I understand the importance of trust in one-to-one roles and act with integrity, reliability, and discretion.

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Communication and Collaboration

I work collaboratively with:
• Families and informal carers
• Healthcare professionals
• Therapists and rehabilitation teams
• Case managers where applicable

Clear communication ensures consistency of care and alignment with rehabilitation goals. I provide updates when required and respect established care plans and professional guidance.

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Adaptability and Person-Centred Care

No two days are the same. I adapt my approach based on:
• Health fluctuations
• Emotional wellbeing
• Energy levels
• Personal preferences
• Changing goals and priorities

I recognise that recovery is not linear and provide steady, patient support during both progress and setbacks.

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Skills and Personal Qualities

I bring the following qualities to my role:
• Compassionate, calm, and patient nature
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• High level of emotional intelligence
• Reliability, consistency, and professionalism
• Ability to motivate without pressure
• Respect for individuality, dignity, and choice

I am confident working independently while remaining accountable and transparent.

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Experience and Background

My experience spans supporting individuals with:
• Age-related conditions
• Reduced mobility
• Post-hospital recovery
• Long-term health conditions
• Cognitive and emotional challenges

I understand the complexity of balancing care, rehabilitation, and companionship in a way that feels supportive rather than clinical.

02/02/2026

💪Move It or Lose It: Keeping Active in Later Life

Staying active is key to maintaining health and well-being as we age. Regular movement can help improve mobility, boost mood, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions.

Why Stay Active?
• Improved Mobility: Gentle exercises keep joints flexible and muscles strong.
• Better Mood: Physical activity releases endorphins, helping to lift spirits and reduce stress.
• Health Benefits: Regular movement can help manage weight, lower blood pressure, and enhance heart health.

Simple Activities to Try:
• Stretching: Gentle stretches to improve flexibility.
• Walking: Short, daily walks can do wonders.
• Chair Exercises: Safe and effective movements while seated.

Let’s encourage our loved ones and clients to keep moving, stay healthy, and enjoy life to the fullest!

26/01/2026

As a Personal Assistant and Rehabilitation Companion, I provide tailored, one-to-one support that blends practical assistance, rehabilitation encouragement, and meaningful companionship. My focus is always on the individual — their goals, preferences, and wellbeing — supporting them to live with confidence, independence, and dignity.

21/10/2025

ME.

Taking the time to learn a little more about me and the care I provide.

Caring for others has always come naturally to me — it’s something I genuinely enjoy and feel privileged to do. I believe that good care is about more than just practical help; it’s about kindness, patience, and truly listening to the person you’re supporting. I take time to get to know each person and their family, so the care I give feels personal, comfortable, and respectful of their routines and wishes.

Over the years, I’ve supported people living with a wide range of needs — from companionship and household help to more complex personal and specialist care. I have particular experience with dementia (both early and late stages), Parkinson’s, and palliative care, as well as mobility and rehabilitation support. I’m confident using equipment such as hoists and Sara Stedy, and I always work in a calm and reassuring way.

I’m fully self-employed, insured, and hold an enhanced DBS (clean and up to date). I keep my training current with regular NHS-accredited courses in Dementia Awareness, First Aid, Safeguarding, and Palliative Care, to name a few.

Outside of work, I’m very family-orientated and enjoy being outdoors — I find nature helps me stay balanced and positive, which reflects in my caring approach. Friends and clients often describe me as reliable, friendly and easy to talk to, and I’m proud of the trusting relationships I’ve built with the people I support and their loved ones.

If it would be helpful, I’d be very happy to arrange a friendly chat or visit so we can talk through your needs and see how I can best support you or your loved one.

Louise Donaghy
Independent Carer & Dementia Friend

Feel free to message me through Facebook or email Louise.donaghy@hotmail.com
Donaghy Private Care

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Below are some photos of me in life and work 💗