top of page

Financial Support for People with Dementia and Their Carers

 

Navigating the financial side of dementia can feel confusing and exhausting, especially at a time when daily life is already challenging. This page explains the main financial help available in the UK, with simple explanations and links you can follow when you’re ready.

 

You do not have to navigate this alone — many of these benefits are easier to claim with support, and organisations such as Age UK, Citizens Advice, and Alzheimer’s Society can help you fill in the forms.

​

1. Attendance Allowance (AA)

 

For people over State Pension age who need help or supervision because of dementia.

  • Not means-tested

  • Tax-free

  • Paid at two rates depending on day/night needs

  • Can help pay for carers, supervision, home help, safety support

 

Apply using the AA1A form via the Government website or by calling 0800 731 0122.

 

For further information see my page Attendance Allowance​

​

​

2. Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

 

For people under State Pension age who develop dementia earlier in life.

  • Covers daily living and mobility needs

  • Not means-tested

  • Continues after pension age once awarded

  • ​

3. Carer’s Allowance

 

For someone providing 35+ hours of care a week.

  • The person cared for must receive AA, PIP (Daily Living), or DLA

  • Earnings must be below the weekly limit

  • Can be paid alongside a State Pension in some circumstances (with Pension Credit top-ups)

 

Even if not payable, you may still qualify for Carer’s Credit to protect your State Pension record.

​

4. Council Tax Reduction (Severe Mental Impairment Rule)

 

People with dementia can be certified as having “Severe Mental Impairment (SMI)”.

 

This can lead to:

  • 25% discount

  • 50% discount

  • Or 100% exemption, depending on who else lives in the home

 

This is one of the most valuable and least-known benefits.

​

5. Pension Credit

 

A top-up for people over State Pension age with low income.

  • Can bring extra help with housing, dental/optical costs, heating support

  • Carers may qualify for an extra “Carer Addition”

 

Many families don’t realise they qualify.

​

6. Housing Help

 

People on low incomes may get:

  • Housing Benefit (pension-age households)

  • Universal Credit Housing Element (working-age households)

 

Useful if the person with dementia needs help with rent.

​

7. NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)

 

Full, non-means-tested funding for people with severe or complex health needs.

 

Covers:

  • 100% of care-home fees,

  • or the cost of care at home.

 

Often misunderstood, but absolutely worth pursuing if the person’s needs are high.

​

8. NHS-Funded Nursing Care (FNC)

 

For people in a nursing home who do not qualify for full CHC.

 

The NHS pays a weekly amount directly to the home to reduce fees.

​

9. Local Authority Social Care Funding

 

Councils provide means-tested help for:

  • Home-care

  • Day services

  • Respite breaks

  • Equipment and adaptations

  • Care-home funding

 

Even self-funders can request a Needs Assessment and get advice or a Deferred Payment Agreement.

​

10. Blue Badge Scheme

 

People with dementia may qualify if they struggle with:

  • Spatial awareness

  • Navigation

  • Safety when walking alone

 

The badge can make outings much easier.

​

11. Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG)

 

Help with home adaptations such as:

  • Stairlifts

  • Wet rooms

  • Ramps

  • Door alarms

  • Safety equipment

 

Applications are made through your local council.

​

12. Help with Heating and Energy Costs

 

People with dementia may receive:

  • Winter Fuel Payment

  • Cold Weather Payments

  • Warm Home Discount

 

Older people and carers should always check these.

​

13. Charitable Grants

 

Some charities offer one-off payments or help with equipment:

  • Alzheimer’s Society

  • Age UK

  • Carers Trust

  • Turn2Us

  • Royal British Legion (for veterans and families)

​​

14.  Added Pension Payments

​

In some circumstances you may qualify to receive added state pension payments.

​

15.  Bereavement Payments

​

UK benefits you might claim after a spouse dies.  See the page Bereavement Payments

​

​

Where to Get Help Filling in Forms

 

Many organisations will help you complete benefits forms free of charge, including:

  • Age UK

  • Citizens Advice

  • Alzheimer’s Society (Dementia Connect)

  • Local Carers Centres

  • Social workers or memory clinics

 

No one should have to go through this paperwork alone.

 

If You Need Personal Guidance

 

If you’re unsure which benefit applies or need help understanding a form, you can contact me through this site.

​

I can help research your question, explain your options clearly, and point you to the right place to apply.

bottom of page