Tag Archive for: alzheimer’s society

World Alzheimer’s Day: Why Dementia Awareness Matters to Merry Maids

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Today is World Alzheimer’s Day.

World Alzheimer’s Day provides a worldwide chance to raise awareness of dementia, enhance understanding, and acknowledge the experiences of those living with dementia and their loved ones.

For Merry Maids, dementia awareness is directly connected to our work.

Our teams enter customers’ homes every day. Some of those customers are living with dementia, while others may have a partner or family member affected by the condition.

That is why we are proud to raise funds in support of Alzheimer’s Society and why our staff have undertaken Dementia Awareness training.

Why does Merry Maids support Alzheimer’s Society?

Alzheimer’s Society is Merry Maids’ Charity of the Year.

Throughout our network, we are actively raising awareness and funds to support the valuable work of Alzheimer’s Society for those impacted by dementia.

Our goal this year is to raise £20,000, and every contribution brings us a step nearer to reaching it.

If you would like to support our fundraising, you can donate through our Merry Maids UK JustGiving page:

https://www.justgiving.com/team/merrymaidsuk

This cause is particularly relevant to Merry Maids because our work takes place inside people’s homes.

We offer regular cleaning services for individuals living with dementia, which can alleviate one routine responsibility for busy relatives or carers.

Our Forget Me Knot Challenge

Our annual Forget Me Knot Challenge is a key way we demonstrate our support for Alzheimer’s Society.

It unites Merry Maids franchisees, team members, and communities across the UK to stay active, raise awareness about dementia, and fundraise for the organisation.

Participants join by logging steps and miles, sharing their progress, and working toward our fundraising target.

This event has become a vital part of our dedication to the cause, blending fundraising efforts with conversations about dementia and the importance of awareness.

What does Dementia Awareness training mean for Merry Maids?

The Dementia Awareness training our staff received enhanced their knowledge and understanding of dementia.

While our maids are still primarily professional cleaners rather than carers or specialists, the training has increased their awareness of how dementia impacts daily life.

This improved understanding shapes our approach during visits, such as giving clients more time to respond, communicating clearly, respecting routines, and recognising why small changes at home may matter.

Why can familiarity matter for someone living with dementia?

Home is a deeply personal space. Familiar objects, routines, and surroundings often hold special significance, especially for those living with dementia.

During cleaning, we recognise that moving objects or changing their placement might seem trivial to some but can confuse others.

Our Dementia Awareness training educates staff on why keeping belongings in familiar places and avoiding unnecessary alterations is crucial. This example shows how greater understanding can improve how we deliver our cleaning service.

Why does communication matter?

Each person living with dementia is unique. Some may require extra time during conversations, while others might prefer specific routines or a certain order of events.

Increasing dementia awareness enables our teams to handle these situations with patience and understanding.

The goal isn’t to assume someone’s experience because they live with dementia, but to recognise that their experiences may differ and adjust our approach accordingly.

How can professional cleaning help families affected by dementia?

Cleaning is an ongoing task that never fully ends.

Floors need vacuuming, bathrooms need cleaning, kitchens demand attention, and dust keeps returning.

For families caring for someone with dementia, housework can become an additional burden, competing with their other responsibilities.

Merry Maids offers to handle this practical task. Our professional cleaning service ensures the home remains clean and comfortable, giving relatives and caregivers more time for other duties or simply more quality moments with their loved one.

Why does the home matter to Merry Maids?

Cleaning is always a personal matter for us.

We enter customers’ homes, knowing each household has unique needs. For those living with dementia, familiar environments and routines are especially important.

Our Dementia Awareness training equips our staff with extra knowledge and understanding.

This doesn’t alter our core service—professional home cleaning remains the same. However, it enhances our awareness during each visit.

World Alzheimer’s Day is more than one day

World Alzheimer’s Day provides a key opportunity to discuss dementia, but our dedication extends beyond September 21.

Our Dementia Awareness training is integrated into our teams’ ongoing activities. Similarly, our fundraising efforts for the Alzheimer’s Society persist year-round, with a collective goal of £20,000 uniting the entire Merry Maids network.

Through fundraising, awareness, and better understanding of dementia, we aim to make a meaningful impact on the communities we serve.

Help us reach £20,000

We are aiming to raise £20,000 this year in support of Alzheimer’s Society.

If you would like to support Merry Maids’ fundraising, you can donate through our JustGiving team page:

https://www.justgiving.com/team/merrymaidsuk

Every contribution takes us one step closer to our target.

How can Merry Maids help?

If you or somebody you care for is living with dementia and could benefit from help with regular household cleaning, your local Merry Maids can help.

The Dementia Awareness training our staff have undertaken has given our team additional knowledge and understanding of dementia, helping us provide our cleaning service with greater awareness, patience and consideration.

Let us take care of the housework, so you have more time for what matters to you.

Find your nearest Merry Maids business or call 0800 021 3072 to find out how we can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is World Alzheimer’s Day?

World Alzheimer’s Day takes place on 21 September each year. It forms part of World Alzheimer’s Month and helps raise awareness and understanding of dementia.

Why does Merry Maids support Alzheimer’s Society?

Alzheimer’s Society is Merry Maids’ Charity of the Year. Dementia is particularly relevant to our work because our teams regularly provide cleaning services inside customers’ homes, including homes where somebody may be living with dementia.

How much is Merry Maids hoping to raise?

Merry Maids is aiming to raise £20,000 this year in support of Alzheimer’s Society.

What does Dementia Awareness training mean for customers?

The training has given our staff additional knowledge and understanding of dementia. It helps our teams approach customers with greater awareness, patience and consideration while providing professional home cleaning.

Dementia-Friendly Autumn Tips for a Calm, Familiar Home

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Autumn introduces many changes to our homes. Evenings get darker, temperatures drop, and daily routines shift after summer.

For those living with dementia, these seasonal changes can sometimes be confusing or unsettling.

Small modifications at home can help preserve familiarity and ease the transition into autumn.

At Merry Maids, our staff have completed Dementia Awareness training, enhancing their understanding of dementia. Here are some tips to make autumn more dementia-friendly for families.

Why Can Autumn Affect Someone Living With Dementia?

Autumn alters many environmental cues we depend on daily.

Natural daylight decreases, evenings come sooner, and routines may shift.

When clocks fall back later in autumn, it can disrupt familiar meal times, sleep schedules, and activities.

For individuals with dementia, preserving familiarity and consistency becomes especially important during this period.

Make the Most of Autumn Daylight

Effective lighting improves visibility and helps individuals better understand their environment.

As autumn days become shorter:

  • Open curtains and blinds fully during daylight hours.
  • Keep windows clean so natural light is not unnecessarily reduced.
  • Turn lamps and lights on before rooms become dark.
  • Check hallways, stairs and frequently used rooms for poorly lit areas.

Try to avoid sudden changes between very bright and very dark spaces.

Think About Sundowning as Evenings Get Darker

Some individuals with dementia may encounter heightened confusion, anxiety, or restlessness in the late afternoon or early evening, a phenomenon known as sundowning.

The changing autumn light can accentuate these symptoms. To reduce this, keep indoor lighting consistent as daylight fades to minimise harsh shadows and reflections.

Additionally, closing curtains or blinds before it gets completely dark can help maintain a stable, comfortable environment.

Keep Autumn Clutter Out of Walkways

Autumn frequently brings additional items into the home.

Coats, umbrellas, muddy shoes, and bags tend to accumulate near doors and hallways. For individuals with dementia, unexpected clutter or objects can make it more difficult to navigate familiar spaces.

Try to:

  • Give coats and shoes a regular storage place.
  • Keep hallways and stairs clear.
  • Remove loose rugs or mats that could create a trip risk.
  • Avoid leaving bags or other items in walkways.

Establishing a regular cleaning schedule can prevent clutter and daily dirt from accumulating.

Keep Familiar Things Where They Belong

A seasonal refresh doesn’t have to involve a complete home overhaul.

Familiar items, furniture, and layouts serve as helpful reference points for those living with dementia. When cleaning or preparing the house for autumn, return belongings to their usual spots.

If you decide to make changes, doing so gradually can feel less disruptive than making multiple adjustments at once.

Prepare for the Autumn Clock Change

When clocks go back, the one-hour shift might seem more impactful for individuals with dementia.

Daylight adjustments can interfere with the body’s circadian rhythm, which controls sleep and wake cycles.

Maintaining familiar routines for meals, bedtime, and daily activities can help create stability during the clock change.

Using auto-set clocks can also eliminate the hassle of manually adjusting multiple timepieces around the house.

Keep Cleaning Routines Consistent

Consistency can be just as important as cleanliness.

A major, sudden cleaning session can unexpectedly affect many areas of the home.

Regular cleaning helps keep the space in check, preventing tasks from accumulating into a larger overhaul. A consistent routine can help with this.

  • Keep familiar rooms tidy.
  • Maintain clear floors and walkways.
  • Reduce unnecessary clutter.
  • Keep frequently used spaces comfortable.
  • Reduce the amount of housework families or carers need to manage.

How Merry Maids Can Support a Dementia-Friendly Home

At Merry Maids, we recognise that entering someone’s home is a responsibility.

Our staff have completed Dementia Awareness training, equipping our teams with better knowledge and understanding of dementia. This allows our maids to serve customers living with dementia more thoughtfully, patiently, and with greater consideration.

We recognise the importance of respecting existing routines, returning belongings to their familiar places, and minimising disruptions during cleaning.

Our teams consist of professional cleaners, not carers or dementia specialists, but their awareness enhances our understanding of the residents we serve.

Merry Maids is also honoured to support Alzheimer’s Society as our Charity of the Year. Our fundraising efforts support awareness and provide funds for those impacted by dementia.

A Little Preparation Can Make Autumn Easier

Creating a dementia-friendly home for autumn doesn’t require extensive modifications.

Adequate lighting, familiar routines, well-defined walkways, and a stable home setting can make the seasonal change easier to handle.

If cleaning becomes a source of stress for you or your family, Merry Maids can manage the housework, allowing you to focus on what truly matters.

Find your nearest Merry Maids to schedule a cleaning or call 0800 021 3072 today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best dementia-friendly autumn tips?

Maintain familiar routines, use natural light effectively, keep walkways clear, and avoid unnecessary changes to furniture or belongings.

Can darker evenings affect someone living with dementia?

Changes in natural light can occasionally lead to increased confusion, particularly in the late afternoon and evening. Consistent, appropriate indoor lighting can help make the environment easier to understand.

What is sundowning?

Sundowning refers to the increased confusion, anxiety, or restlessness that some individuals with dementia may experience as the day ends.

Can the autumn clock change affect someone with dementia?

It is possible. Adjustments to daylight and daily patterns may confuse certain individuals with dementia. Keeping consistent daily routines might help make the adjustment smoother.

How can professional cleaning support a dementia-friendly home?

Regular cleaning can help maintain clear walkways, familiar surroundings and a consistent home environment. It can also reduce the amount of housework families and carers need to manage. Especially with Merry Maids, where our staff have completed Dementia Awareness training. This gives our teams additional knowledge and understanding to clean with greater care, patience and consideration.

Why Does Dementia Awareness Training Matter for Home Cleaning?

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September marks World Alzheimer’s Month, a period dedicated to raising awareness, dispelling myths, and enhancing understanding of dementia. Additionally, World Alzheimer’s Day is observed on September 21st.

For Merry Maids, raising dementia awareness is especially vital because our teams enter customers’ homes. We recognise that inviting someone into your home can feel very different when you or a loved one is living with dementia.

Therefore, our staff have completed Dementia Awareness training, equipping them with greater knowledge and understanding of the condition. This training enables our teams to approach customers and their homes with increased awareness, patience, and consideration.

Why Does Dementia Awareness Training Matter for Home Cleaning?

Professional home cleaning is a personal service that involves entering spaces where customers should feel safe and comfortable.

For individuals living with dementia, unfamiliar faces, routine changes, or unexpected activities can sometimes lead to feelings of uncertainty. Increasing dementia awareness enables our teams to better understand why a customer might need extra time, reassurance, or a different approach.

Our Dementia Awareness training encourages our maids to be more mindful of how they communicate, the importance of patience and respect for familiar routines, and the need to avoid unnecessary disruptions.

It also emphasises that each person with dementia is unique. While our teams are professional cleaners, not caregivers or dementia specialists, this knowledge helps us deliver our services more thoughtfully and sensitively.

Why Can Familiarity Matter at Home?

Home is filled with familiar objects, routines, and surroundings.

For someone with dementia, keeping everyday items in expected places can make them easier to find and help maintain a sense of familiarity.

Cleaning should respect how they use their space. At Merry Maids, this means returning items to their original spots or avoiding unnecessary changes during cleaning.

A tidy home doesn’t have to look completely rearranged afterwards; often, consistency is more important.

How Can Regular Cleaning Support Someone Living With Dementia?

Regular cleaning can help maintain a calm, comfortable and easy-to-navigate home.

Keeping on top of housework can help:

  • Keep floors and walkways clear
  • Reduce unnecessary clutter
  • Maintain familiar living spaces
  • Keep frequently used rooms clean and comfortable
  • Reduce the amount of cleaning family members or carers need to manage

Regular visits help establish a more consistent cleaning schedule, rather than waiting for a major cleaning session.

For families caring for someone with dementia, having someone else handle the housework can also provide valuable extra time.

How Can You Prepare a Dementia-Friendly Home for Autumn?

September brings its own changes. Evenings gradually grow darker, routines shift after summer, and coats, shoes and other seasonal items begin to return to the home.

A few simple steps can help keep the environment familiar and comfortable.

Keep Lighting Consistent

As evenings grow darker, notice how lighting is arranged in rooms.

Dark spots, glare, and pronounced shadows can sometimes cause confusion. Ensure commonly used areas are well lit, and maximise natural daylight during the day.

Keep Walkways Clear

Autumn often brings more shoes, coats, umbrellas, and bags to entrances and hallways.

It’s helpful to assign a designated spot for these items instead of letting them accumulate around walkways.

Avoid Unnecessary Changes

As seasons change, you might be tempted to rearrange a room entirely.

However, keeping familiar furniture arrangements and belongings can assist someone living with dementia. When making seasonal adjustments, do so gradually whenever possible.

Maintain Familiar Routines

September often brings changes to family routines.

Maintaining consistent household patterns when possible can offer stability.

This may involve sticking to familiar meal times, routine activities, and predictable visits from regular visitors.

Merry Maids in Support of Alzheimer’s Society

Merry Maids is proud to partner with Alzheimer’s Society as our Charity of the Year.

Our fundraising efforts support raising awareness and funds for those impacted by dementia.

This dedication aligns with our home visits, as dementia awareness training has enhanced our teams’ knowledge and empathy. It influences how we communicate, clean, and serve our customers with mindfulness.

During World Alzheimer’s Month, we aim to keep the conversation active and foster a deeper understanding of the daily realities faced by people living with dementia and their families.

How Can Merry Maids Help?

If you or a loved one with dementia needs assistance managing household chores, Merry Maids offers regular professional cleaning services. Our teams, trained in Dementia Awareness, recognise that each customer and home is unique. We strive to deliver a trustworthy cleaning service with compassion, respect, and sensitivity.

Find your nearest Merry Maids to schedule a cleaning or call 0800 021 3072 today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dementia Awareness training?

Dementia Awareness training helps people develop a deeper understanding of dementia and how it may affect someone’s everyday experiences. At Merry Maids, this helps our teams approach customers living with dementia with greater awareness and consideration.

Why does dementia awareness matter for a professional cleaner?

Cleaning takes place inside a customer’s personal space. Greater dementia awareness can help cleaners understand the importance of communication, familiarity, patience and avoiding unnecessary disruption.

Can regular cleaning support a dementia-friendly home?

Regular cleaning can help keep floors clear, reduce clutter and maintain a comfortable home. It can also take housework off the to-do list for families and carers.

How can I make a home more dementia-friendly as autumn approaches?

Keep walkways clear, maintain familiar routines and furniture layouts, and consider lighting as the evenings become darker.

How Merry Maids Leicester Supports People Living With Dementia at Home

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Merry Maids Leicester is showing how their Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Awareness Training can help people living with dementia remain comfortable in a cleaner, safer and more familiar home environment.

Merry Maids Leicester a local domestic cleaning company recently supported a Leicester customer who held Power of Attorney, began looking for a cleaning company they could trust.

They needed more than a thorough clean. They wanted a patient and considerate team that would understand their friend’s circumstances, respect their home and provide reassurance to everyone involved.

Dementia-Aware Cleaning in Leicester

For someone living with dementia, changes in routine and unfamiliar visitors can sometimes feel unsettling. This makes the way a cleaning service is introduced and delivered especially important.

The Merry Maids Leicester team uses the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Awareness Training to approach each visit with patience, respect and understanding. The cleaners take care to work calmly, communicate clearly and remain sensitive to the customer’s individual needs.

A professional cleaning service can help maintain a comfortable home without placing the full responsibility for household tasks on relatives, friends or carers.

It can also support people who need:

  • Regular help keeping their home clean and manageable.
  • A one-off deep clean before regular visits begin.
  • Short-term cleaning after a hospital stay or change in circumstances.
  • A dependable service arranged by a relative or someone with Power of Attorney.

Support Delivered With Dignity

After finding Merry Maids Leicester online, the customer felt reassured by the team’s Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Awareness Training.

During the initial clean, the cleaners took time to understand the situation and completed the work with care. Their aim was to improve the home environment while ensuring the customer felt respected and supported throughout the visit.

The customer were pleased with both the cleaning standard and the team’s compassionate approach. They left a five-star Google review:

“Great service, punctual and sympathetic to our situation helping a friend with dementia.”

Following the first visit, they invited Merry Maids Leicester back to provide regular domestic cleaning.

This ongoing arrangement gives the customer greater consistency while offering valuable peace of mind to the people helping manage their care.

Cleaning Support for Families Across Leicestershire

Every person living with dementia has different needs. Merry Maids Leicester therefore takes time to understand the household before recommending a suitable cleaning schedule.

The team provides regular and one-off domestic cleaning across Leicester, Loughborough, Lutterworth, Market Harborough, Melton Mowbray, Hinckley and surrounding Leicestershire communities.

Cleaners bring their own equipment and bespoke products, helping make each visit straightforward for the customer and their family.

Contact Merry Maids Leicester

To discuss dementia-aware domestic cleaning in Leicester or arrange a free, no-obligation quotation, contact the local team.

Call: 0116 275 9055

Email: leicester@merrymaids.co.uk

Visit: merrymaids.co.uk/leicester/

Merry Maids Leicester can work with you, your family or a person holding Power of Attorney to arrange thoughtful cleaning support around the needs of the person and their home.

 

Dementia-Friendly Summer Tips for a Safe, Calm Home

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Summer can bring positive changes to many households. Longer days, brighter spaces, and more time outdoors often create a lighter atmosphere at home.

However, seasonal changes can also feel unsettling for people living with dementia. Changes in routine, temperature, light, and activity levels may affect comfort and confidence throughout the day.

Creating a dementia-friendly home during summer is often about keeping things calm, familiar, and consistent.

Why routine matters more during summer

Summer routines can change quickly. School holidays, visitors, and warmer evenings often disrupt normal patterns at home. While these changes may feel manageable for some people, they can cause confusion or anxiety for someone living with dementia.

Consistent routines provide reassurance and structure.

It can help to:

  • Keep mealtimes regular
  • Maintain familiar sleep routines
  • Avoid sudden changes to the home environment
  • Keep important items in the same place

Predictability often helps reduce stress and supports independence.

Keep spaces calm and familiar

A dementia-friendly home should feel comfortable to move around in. During summer, homes can become busier and noisier, especially when guests visit or doors stay open more often.

To help maintain a calm environment:

  • Avoid moving furniture unnecessarily
  • Keep pathways clear
  • Reduce background noise where possible
  • Maintain familiar layouts and routines

Small changes can have a big impact on how safe and settled a home feels.

Managing light, heat, and airflow

Longer daylight hours can sometimes affect rest and comfort. Bright evening light may make it harder to recognise when the day is ending, especially for someone already experiencing time-related confusion.

It helps to:

  • Close curtains before sunset to reduce glare and shadows
  • Keep lighting soft and consistent indoors
  • Use fans or open windows carefully to keep rooms comfortable
  • Avoid rooms becoming too hot or stuffy

Fresh air is important, but the environment should still feel calm and controlled.

Reduce clutter and trip risks

Summer activity often means more items around the home. Shoes by the doors, bags, garden items, or extra furniture can quickly create clutter.

Keeping spaces clear helps reduce confusion and lowers the risk of trips or falls.

Focus on:

  • Clear walkways
  • Tidy entrances and hallways
  • Minimal clutter on floors
  • Organised living spaces

A clean, organised home is easier to navigate and more relaxing to spend time in.

Why a consistent cleaning routine helps

Consistency matters in dementia-friendly homes. Large, irregular cleaning sessions can feel disruptive, while regular maintenance helps keep the home calm and predictable.

Regular cleaning helps:

  • Keep surfaces and floors safe and clear
  • Maintain familiar surroundings
  • Reduce stress caused by clutter or mess
  • Support a calmer atmosphere overall

For families and carers, regular support can also reduce pressure and free up valuable time.

How Merry Maids supports dementia-friendly homes

At Merry Maids, we understand that cleaning support is about more than keeping a home tidy. Our teams have received dementia awareness training from the Alzheimer’s Society, helping them work respectfully and thoughtfully in homes where someone may be living with dementia.

We are also proud to support Alzheimer’s Society as our Charity of the Year. Through our fundraising activities in support of Alzheimer’s Society, we help raise awareness and support for people affected by dementia.

Our regular home cleaning services help maintain safe, calm, and comfortable environments, giving families one less thing to worry about during busy summer months.

A calmer home for the season ahead

Summer should feel comfortable and manageable for everyone in the home. Small adjustments, consistent routines, and regular cleaning support can all help create a safer, calmer environment for people living with dementia.

Find your nearest Merry Maids business to book a clean online or call 0800 021 3072 today.

Creating a Dementia-Friendly Home: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference

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Dementia Action Week is an important time for raising awareness and supporting those living with dementia.

Throughout the UK, an increasing number of families are modifying their homes to better accommodate their loved ones. You don’t need to make large-scale changes to create a dementia-friendly home. Instead, small, deliberate adjustments, along with appropriate support, can help make everyday life more peaceful, secure, and easier to handle.

Professional cleaning can play a key role in maintaining that environment.

Why a dementia-friendly home matters

For people living with dementia, familiar environments can reduce confusion and promote independence. Changes in memory and perception may make daily spaces more challenging to navigate. Maintaining a clean and consistent home fosters reassurance and stability.

A well-maintained environment can:

  • Reduce confusion and stress
  • Support daily routines
  • Make movement around the home safer
  • Create a calmer atmosphere for both individuals and carers

The role of a clean home in dementia care

Cleaning is not just about appearance. For someone living with dementia, clutter, mess, or sudden changes at home can heighten anxiety.

Regular cleaning helps:

  • Keep pathways clear and safe
  • Reduce visual distractions
  • Maintain a consistent layout
  • Support a calm and familiar environment

When cleaning is performed regularly, the home looks consistent, which promotes a sense of comfort and confidence.

Lighting and layout still matter

In addition to cleanliness, minor changes to lighting and layout can enhance the ambiance of a space.

It helps to:

  • Keep rooms well-lit, especially later in the day
  • Avoid moving furniture unnecessarily
  • Maintain clear, simple layouts
  • Reduce shadows and dark corners

These small changes complement regular cleaning to support a more comfortable environment.

Why are consistent routines important?

Routine is essential in dementia care. Regular cleaning of the home, instead of sporadic deep cleans, helps reinforce a stable routine.

Predictability is important. Being assured that the home is attended to regularly can lessen stress for both individuals with dementia and their families.

How Merry Maids supports dementia-friendly homes

At Merry Maids, we understand that cleaning a dementia-friendly home requires more than attention to detail. It requires care, consistency, and understanding.

All of our maids are trained through the Alzheimer’s Society to work respectfully and thoughtfully in homes where someone has dementia. Our teams emphasise keeping familiar layouts, following established routines, and ensuring a calm, clean environment without causing disruption.

We also provide consistent teams where possible, so the people entering your home remain familiar faces. This helps build trust and reduces uncertainty.

Regular visits mean:

  • The home stays clean without large changes
  • Clutter is managed before it builds up
  • Surfaces and floors remain safe and clear
  • Families and carers have one less thing to worry about

Supporting families and carers

Providing care for someone with dementia requires time and effort. Managing cleaning tasks can increase stress.

Merry Maids home cleaning services help ease that burden. By handling the cleaning, we allow families more time to focus on caring, relaxing, and enjoying meaningful moments together.

We are also proud to support Alzheimer’s Society as our Charity of the Year. Through our fundraising activities for Alzheimer’s Society, we help raise awareness and support for people affected by dementia.

Small changes, lasting impact

Creating a dementia-friendly home is about consistency, simplicity, and support. Regular, careful cleaning is an important part of maintaining a space that feels safe, calm, and familiar.

This Dementia Action Week is an ideal opportunity to reflect on how proper support can simplify daily life.

Find your nearest Merry Maids business to book a clean online or call 0800 021 3072 today.

How Seasonal Changes Can Affect People Living With Dementia

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Seasonal changes can be challenging for people living with dementia. Fluctuations in daylight, temperature, and daily routines may affect mood, sleep, and behaviour. These changes can also impact family members and carers, especially when symptoms become more noticeable during certain times of the year.

Understanding how the seasons influence dementia can help you organise your home and routines to feel calmer and more supportive.

Why seasonal change matters in dementia

People living with dementia often rely on routine, familiarity, and environmental cues to feel secure. When daylight hours change or daily patterns shift, these cues can become confusing. As a result, anxiety, restlessness, or disrupted sleep may increase.

Seasonal changes can also affect energy levels and emotional wellbeing, particularly during spring and autumn when clocks change.

Sundowning and changes in daylight

One common symptom linked to seasonal change is sundowning. Sundowning refers to increased confusion, agitation, or restlessness that typically happens in the late afternoon or early evening.

As daylight diminishes earlier or light levels fluctuate, the brain may find it difficult to judge the time of day. Shadows, dimmer rooms, and reduced natural light can make familiar spaces seem strange. This can cause distress, pacing, or behavioural changes as the day comes to an end.

Maintaining consistent lighting and avoiding sudden brightness changes can help lessen the effects of sundowning.

Circadian rhythm and the spring clock change

The circadian rhythm is the body’s natural internal clock. It controls sleep, wakefulness, and daily routines. Dementia can already influence this rhythm, and clock changes in spring can cause further disturbance.

When clocks go forward, even a single hour shift can seem significant. People living with dementia might experience:

  • Difficulty settling at night
  • Waking earlier than usual
  • Increased confusion around time
  • Changes in appetite or energy

Because their sense of time may already feel uncertain, gradually adjusting routines before and after the clock change can help make the transition easier.

Other ways seasonal changes can affect dementia

Seasonal changes can also introduce other challenges:

  • Temperature fluctuations: Warmer or colder weather can impact comfort and lead to confusion around clothing choices.
  • Routine disruption: Spring and summer often attract more visitors or activity, which can feel overwhelming.
  • Environmental changes: Such as brighter light, open windows, or alterations in sound, can influence concentration and calmness.

Maintaining daily routines as consistent as possible helps offer reassurance during these transitions.

How the home environment can help

A calm, familiar home is essential in helping someone living with dementia cope with seasonal changes.

Helpful steps include:

  • Using gentle, consistent lighting in the late afternoon and evening
  • Drawing curtains before dusk to minimise shadows
  • Keeping rooms tidy and free of clutter to prevent visual confusion
  • Maintaining familiar furniture arrangements and routines
  • Supporting regular sleep and mealtimes

A clean, well-organised home also lowers background stress for both the individual and their carers.

Support during seasonal transitions

At Merry Maids UK, we know that small changes can make a big difference. We are proud to support Alzheimer’s Society through our fundraising efforts, and all of our maids are dementia-trained through Alzheimer’s Society.

Support the Alzheimer’s Society by making a donation here – https://www.justgiving.com/team/merrymaidsuk

Being Alzheimer’s and Dementia trained helps our teams work with extra care, understanding, and sensitivity in homes where someone may be living with dementia. A consistent, respectful cleaning routine can help maintain comfort and familiarity during seasonal changes.

If you would like support keeping your home calm and cared for, find your nearest Merry Maids business to book a clean online or call 0800 021 3072 today.

Dementia-Friendly New Year’s Tips

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The new year is a time for celebration, reflection, and new beginnings. However, for people living with dementia, changes in routine, noise, and crowded gatherings can be confusing or distressing. By taking a few thoughtful steps, you can make your New Year’s celebrations calm, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.

At Merry Maids UK, we are certified Dementia Friends, as many of our staff members work with individuals who suffer from the condition and strive to ensure they are cared for properly and confidently while we clean their homes.

Last year, we raised £4,000 for Alzheimer’s Society as part of our Forget Me Knot Challenge and have pledged to raise £10,000 in 2025.

Year-round, we work diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of our customers.

Here are some dementia-friendly New Year’s tips to help you plan a peaceful and positive start to the year.

1. Keep the Evening Calm

Late nights and loud celebrations can feel overwhelming. Try celebrating earlier in the evening instead.

  • A family dinner, gentle music, or a cosy movie night can create a relaxed atmosphere that still feels special.
  • If you decide to stay up, make sure to keep the lighting soft and the noise levels low.
  • Avoid making sudden loud noises, such as party poppers or fireworks.

2. Maintain Familiar Routines

Routine brings comfort and helps reduce confusion.

  • Maintain a regular schedule for meals, bedtime, and daily routines. If plans change, explain them clearly and gently.
  • You could also include familiar traditions, such as watching a favourite film, sharing family photos, or having a favourite meal.

3. Involve Everyone in Simple Activities

Engaging in simple, shared activities can foster a sense of connection among everyone involved.

  • You could try baking together, working on a jigsaw puzzle, or listening to music.
  • Steer clear of games or events that seem hurried or overly competitive.
  • Emphasise calm moments that provide comfort and encourage conversation.

4. Create a Safe and Comfortable Space

A tidy, well-lit home helps reduce anxiety and the risk of falls.

  • Ensure walkways are clear, eliminate trip hazards, and keep decorations unobtrusive.
  • If the house is noisy, create a calm space for relaxation.
  • Familiar items such as photos, cushions, or blankets can help create a sense of comfort and belonging.

5. Keep the Environment Gentle

Loud music, flashing lights, or large groups can be unsettling.

  • Select soft lighting and minimise background noise.
  • Natural scents, gentle lighting, and a comfortable temperature create a calm environment that feels welcoming and secure.

6. Start the New Year Fresh

After the celebrations, take some time to tidy up. A clean and organised home feels more peaceful for everyone, especially those living with dementia.
If you need extra help, Merry Maids home cleaning services can assist. To learn more about how we can help you or a loved one, find your nearest Merry Maids business to book a clean online or call 0800 021 3072 today.

Dementia-Friendly Christmas Tips

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Christmas is a time for family, comfort, and togetherness. However, for individuals living with dementia, the busy atmosphere, bright lights, and loud noises can sometimes be overwhelming.

By making a few minor adjustments, you can help create a calm, familiar, and enjoyable festive season for everyone.

At Merry Maids UK, we are certified Dementia Friends, as many of our staff members work with individuals who suffer from the condition and strive to ensure they are cared for properly and confidently while we clean their homes.

Last year, we raised £4,000 for Alzheimer’s Society as part of our Forget Me Knot Challenge and have pledged to raise £10,000 in 2025.

Year-round, we work diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of our customers.

Here are some straightforward dementia-friendly Christmas tips to enjoy your celebrations:

1. Keep Decorations Simple

Bright lights and flashing decorations can be confusing or distressing for some individuals living with dementia.

  • Instead, opt for gentle, warm lighting rather than flashing fairy lights.
  • Use familiar and safe decorations, and avoid cluttering rooms or walkways to ensure a safe environment.

Maintain the layout of your home, as changing the position of furniture can make navigation more difficult for someone living with dementia.

2. Create Calm Spaces

Christmas gatherings can get noisy, especially with the addition of visitors and music.

  • Designate a quiet space where your loved one can rest if they feel tired or overwhelmed.
  • A familiar chair, soft lighting, and calming background sounds create a comfortable and secure atmosphere.

3. Keep Routines as Normal as Possible

Establishing a routine provides stability.

  • Try to keep consistent mealtimes, bedtime, and daily habits throughout the holidays.
  • Abrupt changes can be confusing, so schedule visits or outings at times that align with your loved one’s regular rhythm.

4. Choose Activities Everyone Can Enjoy

Engaging in simple, shared activities can help create an inclusive atmosphere during the Christmas season.

  • Listening to music quietly, looking through old photos, or decorating cookies together can help spark happy memories and conversations.
  • Steer clear of anything overly complicated or hurried. Slower moments often hold the deepest significance.

5. Be Mindful of Noise and Lighting

Loud music, television, and bright flashing lights can lead to sensory overload.

  • Maintain low background noise and use soft, consistent lighting. This creates a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

6. Prepare Guests

If friends or relatives are visiting, inform them in advance about any changes or assistance your loved one may need. A little understanding can significantly enhance everyone’s experience together.

7. Keep the Home Safe and Clean

A tidy home reduces trip hazards and makes moving around easier. Clear walkways, keep floors dry, and ensure decorations don’t block doors or lights.

We hope you have an enjoyable and safe dementia-friendly Christmas for all those celebrating with individuals living with dementia. To learn more about how we can help you or a loved one, find your nearest Merry Maids business to book a clean online or call 0800 021 3072 today.

Dementia Conscious Bonfire Night Tips

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Bonfire Night is the time of year to expect lots of oohs and aahs from firework displays around the country. But for those with dementia, they can be overwhelming.

At Merry Maids UK, we are certified Dementia Friends, as many of our businesses work with members of the public who suffer from the condition and work hard to ensure they are cared for properly and confidently as we clean their homes.

Last year, we raised £4,000 for Alzheimer’s Society as part of our Forget Me Knot Challenge and have pledged to raise £10,000 in 2025.

Year-round, we work hard to keep our customers safe and cared for.

Here are five tips on how to enjoy the fun while being mindful of everyone’s comfort during bonfire night:

Plan Ahead

Let your loved one know fireworks night is approaching. This helps gauge their feelings and level of involvement. Some might prefer company without the noise, so plan a cosy activity together. Check in with neighbours about their firework plans, as nearby displays might upset someone with dementia. A change of scenery could be a good idea.

Attend a Professional Event

Firework shows with hot chocolate, marshmallows, and bonfires are fun for all. Choose events run by professionals, as they often offer quieter displays and follow strict safety rules.

Stay Comfortable

Ensure the environment isn’t overwhelming with too much noise or activity. If it gets too much, have a plan to retreat to a quieter space. Keep them warm with layers of natural fabrics and hot drinks, checking the temperature first. Ear defenders or plugs can also help.

Create an Alternative Fireworks Night

For those not keen on big events, enjoy sparklers at home or watch from a safe distance. TV and online displays offer the spectacle without the noise. A themed dinner with favourite foods can be a delightful way to celebrate.

Avoid Fireworks Altogether

If fireworks aren’t their thing, that’s okay. Enjoy movies, audiobooks, or music together instead. Offer reassurance with calm words and comforting touch if they feel distressed.

 

To learn more about how we can help you or a loved one, find your nearest Merry Maids business to book a clean online or call 0800 021 3072 today.

Debbie Walker from Merry Maids of Croydon Awarded Great British Franchisee Status

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Merry Maids business owner Debbie Walker achieves coveted Great British Franchisee Award.

Debbie Walker, the owner of Merry Maids of Croydon, has been recognised at whichfranchise.com’s Great British Franchisee Awards 2025 for excellence in franchising.

This blog post has all of the details.

The Great British Franchisee Awards 2025

This coveted award, now in its fifth year, recognises the best of the best of British franchising and is only awarded to a handful of franchisees across the whole country annually.

As a winner, Debbie proved excellence in her franchisee stability, business experience, growth and performance, staff retention and care, customer satisfaction, community involvement, franchise brand investment and inspired leadership.

Achieving this coveted spot, Debbie stands as one of seventeen exceptional franchisees awarded this year, alongside Fiona Perks, from Merry Maids UK’s sister brand Rosemary Bookkeeping.

She also joins her fellow Merry Maids franchisees, Nicky Morris, Tom Jackson, and Siva Kugathas, who have achieved the accreditation in previous years.

“The quality of candidates was remarkable once more this year. It’s wonderful that this extraordinary group of franchisees is being acknowledged for exceeding “the norm.” Their enthusiasm and dedication to their brand truly shone in their applications. They are genuine ambassadors for franchising,” says Suzanne Melville, Head of Marketing, whichfranchise.

The judges were impressed with Debbie’s excellent involvement with her community and franchisor as a true advocate of the Merry Maids brand, as well as her growth over the past few years, brilliant business strategies to sustain and improve growth and create value for her customers; going above and beyond to make sure that their needs are met.

Debbie says she is thrilled to be recognised:

“Winning the Great British Franchisee Awards means a great deal to me. I’ve been in business for over 20 years, providing dedicated services for my community. My mission has always been to be a business with a heart, providing an exceptional standard of cleaning for the people we serve while creating a place where my staff can thrive and we can give back through philanthropy and community support. This award is a recognition of all that, and how it’s essential to what makes a great franchise. I’m so proud to be among the best franchise business owners in the UK!”

Need a new cleaner?

See how Debbie and her award-winning business can support you with all manner of professional cleaning services by calling 0208 663 3268 to arrange a free, no-obligation quotation.

Or, nationwide, book online or find your nearest Merry Maids business today to connect with your local cleaning experts.

Case Study: Supporting life after a hospital stay

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How Merry Maids Northampton helped a customer’s home recover after time in the hospital.

At Merry Maids, our regular and one-off cleaning services help people stay on top of the cleaning and give them the time back to focus on the things that matter most to them.

Often, this is just helping stay on top of the clutter or day-to-day messes or get the home ready for hosting. But sometimes, it means the world of difference for people in need.

In this blog post, we see how Merry Maids Northampton helped a customer get back to life after a stay in the hospital.

The Problem

The customer booked the cleaning through our online shop for a one-off cleaning after a stay in hospital had left her family at home unable to keep up with the regular maintenance of the household to the standard they’re used to.

The Solution

The team at Merry Maids Northampton sent two cleaners to the home on the day of the cleaning and cleaned the agreed areas of the home (including the oven) until spotless, leaving the customer delighted with the results.

The Result

After the cleaning, the customer was so happy with the standard of service delivered by our team, that they have booked in for multiple one-off cleanings since!

Want help with your cleaning?

A clean and happy home is essential for a healthy life. At Merry Maids, we’re on hand to ensure you get just that.

Whatever the needs of you or your home, our teams offer bespoke cleaning services tailored to suit you. So, whether there’s a room you can’t seem to stay on top of, are or you have a loved one living with dementia or other illnesses, or you need to schedule regular cleaning around a busy home life, we have you covered.

If you’re in Northampton and the surrounding areas and would benefit from professional and expert domestic cleaning services backed by over 30 years as part of a beloved worldwide brand, contact Becky and the team at Merry Maids Northampton on 0800 035 1015.

Or nationwide, find your nearest Merry Maids business or book online to see how they can help you today.

Merry Maids AAA Steps Up for the Forget Me Knot Challenge

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Making steps to raise awareness for the Forget Me Knot Challenge at Merry Maids Inverness.

The AAA team from Merry Maids Inverness have made a grand start to their tenure under the new ownership of Siva and Aryanna Kugathas, taking part in a team walk as part of this year’s Forget Me Knot Challenge to raise awareness and funds for those living with dementia in the UK.

The Forget Me Knot Challenge

Alzheimer’s Society is symbolised by the forget-me-not flower, which has long been associated with Alzheimer’s and dementia due to its connection to memory loss. The Forget Me Knot Challenge is a sponsored virtual relay where staff and owners from various UK businesses run, walk, or cycle the total mileage between each location, linking them together and raising funds for Alzheimer’s Society: creating the Forget Me Knot. Walking to raise awareness and honour those affected, the team showed that even small steps can make a meaningful difference.

Members of staff had a fantastic time walking together at Epsom Downs Racecourse, enjoying the views, fresh air, and great company while racking up around 12,000+ steps each in two hours. Even those who couldn’t be there in person joined in by walking in their own local towns, making it a fun, inclusive, and heartwarming team effort that brought everyone together in spirit.

The walk was a lovely chance for everyone to catch up outside of work and enjoy the fresh air. With plenty of laughter, the team came away feeling closer and proud of raising the miles on the Forget Me Knot Challenge.

Support the Challenge

If you’d like to help support our teams, please visit our Just Giving page to donate, or, if you’re one of our customers, please feel free to speak to our staff about donating.

Thank you for all your support!

Need a dementia-conscious cleaner?

If you know someone who is living with dementia, see how we can help to give them a better quality of life for as long as possible by finding your nearest Merry Maids business for a free, no-obligation quote on our services or booking online today.

Merry Maids Businesses Awarded for Investing in Their Communities

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Two Merry Maids businesses celebrated winning awards for investing in their communities at the ServiceMaster Thrive in 2025 Gala.

Merry Maids in Inverness and Bedford were recognised for their dedication to supporting their customers and their staff, winning coveted Merry Maids Invest awards at the ServiceMaster Thrive in 2025 conference and gala evening.

This blog post has all the details.

A Great Place to Work

Merry Maids of Inverness, represented at the awards by Office Manager Andrea Morland, were awarded for their successes in making the business a great place for its staff to thrive.

Collecting the award, Andrea, who oversees the day-to-day running of the business, has united the team under her leadership since taking the reins as Office Manager last year, said:

“ I think it’s just really important that the staff like coming to work. Cleaning isn’t the easiest job, but I’ve tried to make work a very friendly place.”

To do this, Andrea has increased both the communication within the business and created more opportunities for teambuilding and fun at work, alongside, naturally, delivering an exceptional service. This includes creating a morning meeting where the office team communicate with the cleaning staff and discusses the jobs of the day and regular activities like a quiz and playing games to round off the week on a Friday. All of this has made Merry Maids Inverness a great place to work and a place where excellence can prosper.

“I think we have a very dedicated team in the office, and it’s thriving,” Andrea adds.

A Great Place to Invest

The owner of Merry Maids Bedford, Mercy Ikeji, has made headlines this year for the business’ unique dedication to dementia support, where beyond our expert and compassionate cleaning for those living with dementia, she and her team have offered free cleanings to those living with dementia who cannot clean for themselves and are finding their quality of life impacted by the disease.

Collecting the award, she said:

 ”The training for Merry Maids, and Alzheimer’s for all our cleaners has really helped our cleaners to understand how to clean for those with dementia in a caring way. Most of the people clean for can see that our cleaners are caring cleaners and that has really made an impact, especially with the charity cleaning, where we support people in the community with those kinds of needs with a free cleaning and give back.”

“I want to thank Merry Maids, and our brand manager, Vikki, for the initiative and partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society, and my team for actually coming out to do the free clean to support the people we serve.”

Win a Free Cleaning!

As a celebration of Merry Maids Bedford’s first anniversary and our work alongside Alzheimer’s Society we would like you to nominate someone who is living with or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s/dementia who you believe deserves a FREE 5hr clean.

T&C’s – All Nominee’s must be over the age of 18 and live within the Bedfordshire area. The prize is non-transferable and non-negotiable. Entries close on 31st Oct.

Need a cleaner who cares?

If you or someone you love could benefit from dementia-conscious and expert cleaning services from your local professionals, find your nearest Merry Maids business, book online or learn more about our commitment to supporting Alzheimer’s Society today.

Merry Maids Sheffield Recognised for Charitable Contributions in Merry Maids Awards

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Merry Maids Sheffield has been recognised as Merry Maids’ Forget Me Knot Charity Champions for 2024.

Mike Fargher and his team at Merry Maids Sheffield have been awarded the title of Charity Champion for their exceptional contributions to our fundraising efforts for our charity of the year, Alzheimer’s Society.

This blog post has all of the details.

Merry Maids Forget Me Knot Challenge

The Forget Me Knot Challenge is an annual initiative started by Merry Maids in 2023 to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society.

Our staff nationwide regularly clean for members of the public living with dementia and have been long-time supporters of Dementia Friends, which helps people become more aware of ways to support those living with dementia.

As we noticed we were encountering an increasing number of people living with dementia, whether themselves or caring for a loved one, we devised The Forget Me Knot Challenge to provide more ways to help by supporting Alzheimer’s Society and its mission.

The sponsored virtual relay tracks the distance covered by our business owners and staff as they walk, run, cycle or swim to travel the equivalent distance between each Merry Maids business nationwide.

Since then, we’ve raised a significant amount of money for Alzheimer’s Society, including £10,000 in the last year, all of which goes toward helping them provide help and hope to the over 800,000 people living with dementia in the UK.

Not to mention, over the last year, every Merry Maids cleaner across the UK has also attended exclusive dementia information sessions run by Alzheimer’s Society to recognise and bolster their knowledge of dementia, helping position them to provide informed care to the people we serve.

Charity Champion

Alongside our Forget Me Knot Challenge Champion, Mike and the team at Merry Maids Sheffield were awarded the Charity Champion award for going above and beyond in their fundraising efforts across both consecutive years in which the Forget Me Knot Challenge has run, through impressive donations, accrued through sponsored bike rides and the charity of their staff and customers.

The team collected their award at the annual ServiceMaster Thrive in 2025 gala and has taken it back to the office to sit in pride of place in their trophy cabinet as a reminder and motivator for this year’s challenge, which is already underway.

Need a cleaner who cares?

If you or someone you love could benefit from dementia-conscious and expert cleaning services from your local professionals, find your nearest Merry Maids business, book online or learn more about our commitment to supporting Alzheimer’s Society today.

How to speak to children about dementia

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How can you have discussions about dementia with young children?

As the school summer holidays begin, many families are spending more time together, which can bring both joy and challenges. When a close family member or friend develops dementia, children and young people may need time to adjust to the news and understand.

Alongside our charity of the year, Alzheimer’s Society, we’re working hard to support people living with dementia across the UK through specialist cleaning services informed by the latest research and a compassionate, expert approach to our work.

There’s no one ‘right thing’ to say to a child to explain dementia and all that comes with it; different children and young people will be reassured and helped by distinctive things.

In this blog post, we’re sharing the top tips advocated by Alzheimer’s Society that may help you speak to a child about dementia.

Explain the changes in behaviour

Perhaps there’s something new that the person with dementia has begun to do. This could include becoming confused about who people are or where they are.

They might feel anxious or frustrated when this happens. That could also affect their behaviour. For example, they might ask repeated questions or become agitated. These changes can be particularly confusing and upsetting for children and young people, so it’s important to talk to children about how dementia is causing these changes in behaviour.

Children might think they’ve done something wrong to cause the changes. Make sure they know they’re not at fault and encourage them to share their thoughts, feelings and questions with you. They might feel embarrassed about some of the things she does. Or they might feel bored or annoyed by repeated questions. Reassure them that it’s OK to feel sad, confused or frustrated.

E.g. ‘Grandma’s illness is making it harder for her to do some things. She might seem different or confused.’

Reassure them about changing relationships

The person with dementia may not be able to do the same things they used to.

Children could feel a mix of loss, anxiety and other emotions as they adjust to this. They might also worry about future changes.

Reassure them that the loved one still loves them and focus on what they can do with them. Emphasise the importance of spending time with the person so they can show them they care. By doing things with the person and talking with them, children are helping to support them.

Answer their questions honestly, using language they’ll understand. Don’t be afraid to use humour if it feels appropriate. Laughing together can help sometimes.

E.g. ‘Even if Grandad doesn’t always remember us, or if he says unkind things sometimes, he still loves us very much.’

Helping to manage emotions

While different children may respond differently to different reassurances, here are a few helpful statements to help explain how they or the person with dementia may be feeling:

  • Be honest but gentle: ‘It’s normal to feel sad or upset about the changes in Grandma.’
  • Provide support: ‘It’s OK to feel sad, angry or confused. I’m here to help you through it.’
  • Encourage questions: ‘If you have any questions or feel worried, you can always talk to me.’
  • Highlight the positive: ‘We can still enjoy today and make happy memories with Grandma.’

For particularly young children, using stories may also help them to understand the feelings and information surrounding dementia.

There are several books recognised by Alzheimer’s Society that aim to increase understanding of dementia in younger children.

Need a dementia-conscious cleaner?

If you know someone who is living with dementia, see how we can help to give them a better quality of life for as long as possible by finding your nearest Merry Maids business for a free, no-obligation quote on our services or booking online today.

Merry Maids Fylde, Blackpool and Preston Recognised as Forget Me Knot Champion for 2024

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Nicky Morris and her team have been recognised as Merry Maids’ Forget Me Knot Challenge Champions for 2024.

Merry Maids Fylde, Blackpool and Preston have been awarded the title of Forget Me Knot Challenge Champion for 2024, for their exceptional contributions to our fundraising efforts over the last year for our charity of the year, Alzheimer’s Society.

This blog post has all of the details.

Merry Maids Forget Me Knot Challenge

The Forget Me Knot Challenge is an annual initiative started by Merry Maids in 2023 to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society.

Our staff nationwide regularly clean for members of the public living with dementia and have been long-time supporters of Dementia Friends, which helps people become more aware of ways to support those living with dementia.

As we noticed we were encountering an increasing number of people living with dementia, whether themselves or caring for a loved one, we devised The Forget Me Knot Challenge to provide more ways to help by supporting Alzheimer’s Society and its mission.

The sponsored virtual relay tracks the distance covered by our business owners and staff as they walk, run, cycle or swim to travel the equivalent distance between each Merry Maids business nationwide.

Since then, we’ve raised a significant amount of money for Alzheimer’s Society, including £10,000 in the last year, all of which goes toward helping them provide help and hope to the over 800,000 people living with dementia in the UK.

Not to mention, over the last year, every Merry Maids cleaner across the UK has also attended exclusive dementia information sessions run by Alzheimer’s Society to recognise and bolster their knowledge of dementia, helping position them to provide informed care to the people we serve.

Forget Me Knot Challenge Champion

Each year, we recognise a Forget Me Knot Challenge Champion, who has gone above and beyond in their fundraising efforts. As the second-ever Forget Me Knot Challenge Champion, succeeding Mike Fargher from Merry Maids Sheffield, Nicky and the team at Merry Maids Fylde, Blackpool and Preston were celebrated for their impressive donations, group activities, and vocal advocacy of the initiative across their social media platforms.

The team collected their award at the annual ServiceMaster Thrive in 2025 gala and has taken it back to the office to sit in pride of place in their trophy cabinet as a reminder and motivator for this year’s challenge, which is already underway.

Need a cleaner who cares?

If you or someone you love could benefit from dementia-conscious and expert cleaning services from your local professionals, find your nearest Merry Maids business, book online or learn more about our commitment to supporting Alzheimer’s Society today.

Merry Maids Stafford Manager raises over £400 for Alzheimer’s Society through charity boxing event

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Ashley Weston from Merry Maids Stafford has raised over £400 for Alzheimer’s Society through a charity white collar boxing match.

There are many ways to raise money for charity. And though it may seem unorthodox to do so by stepping into the boxing ring, Ashley Weston from Merry Maids Stafford, Dudley, and Wolverhampton has joined Merry Maids Inverness’  Matt Cooper in taking part in one of Ultra White Collar Boxing’s charity boxing events.

These black-tie events are held in over a hundred cities across the UK, where volunteers like Ashley train for eight weeks to step into the ring and raise money for charity.

Ashley’s efforts contribute to fundraising for our charity of the year, Alzheimer’s Society, which we have fundraised for over the last two years through our annual Forget Me Knot challenge.

After eight weeks of training and a team evening out to cheer him on, Ashley had a great fight and raised £470 for the dementia charity, which will help them in their mission to provide help and hope for those living with dementia across the UK.

“All the donations, big or small, were so appreciated. A lot of blood, sweat and tears have gone into these eight weeks of solid training to raise money for such a great charity,” said Ashley after his match.

Discover the value of a cleaner who cares

If you or someone you know would benefit from a professional and compassionate, regular or one-off, home cleaning service from the local experts at Merry Maids, contact Merry Maids Stafford on 01785 255299 for a free, no-obligation quote.

Or nationwide, find your nearest Merry Maids business or book online today.

4 Ways to Support Someone with Dementia When the Clocks Change

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How you can help someone with dementia feel at ease when the clocks change.

REJOICE, British Summer Time starts this Sunday!

While losing an hour’s sleep is nobody’s favourite thing, most of us are likely looking forward to the extra daylight and the start of spring.

Changing the clocks can be confusing, and most people have probably fallen victim to some daylight-saving-related scheduling confusion at one time or another.

But, it can be especially disorientating for people living with dementia, who may struggle with awareness of time.

At Merry Maids UK, we’ve spent the last year working closely with our charity of the year, Alzheimer’s Society to attend dementia training workshops so that all of our cleaners nationwide are equipped and specially trained to support our customers across the UK living with dementia.

In this blog post, we’re sharing their expertise on ways to support someone with dementia when the clocks change.

How the clocks changing can affect people with dementia

As our days get longer and brighter, people with dementia may find it harder to differentiate between 6 PM and 6 PM.

This disrupts their circadian rhythm and makes it hard for them, and those who care for them to ensure they get enough sleep.

Losing sleep can lead to irritability, tiredness, and sometimes even distress, which can be exacerbated if their routines are impacted.

They may forget when to eat, or take their medication or not know when their favourite TV show is on.

But the good news is, there are simple things you can do to help people living with dementia through these changes, to ensure minimal disruption and distress.

  1. Start their evening routine an hour earlier

Consider starting your evening earlier on Saturday, including having dinner and going to bed an hour earlier.

This will ensure that the person you’re caring for still gets enough sleep and can wake up at their usual time on Sunday and that their routine will only be different for an evening rather than the whole day.

  1. Keep to a routine

Keeping to a regular routine during the day and at bedtime can help to regulate a disrupted body clock.

It helps if these are associated with other everyday tasks such as going for a walk after breakfast.

Doing this consistently will help a person with dementia to make sense of the time.

  1. Keep Active

Gentle exercise during the day can help the person feel sleepier during the evening, meaning they’ll go to bed at their usual time.

If this isn’t an option, keeping them active during the day can have a similar effect and using blackout curtains to reduce sunlight in the evenings can help with body clock regulation, too.

  1. Look into auto-setting clocks

You may want to invest in an auto-setting clock for them.

Deciphering a clock face can be tricky for some people with dementia, so often digital clocks are easier.

You can also get clocks that show the day of the week, date and time, and for some people, a day/night clock can help them distinguish what time of day it is.

See the value of a cleaner who cares

If you or someone you know would benefit from a professional and compassionate, regular or one-off, home cleaning service from the dementia friends at Merry Maids UK, find your nearest Merry Maids business or book online today.

Case Study: Dementia-Trained Cleaners in Wakefield, Leeds, York and Harrogate

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How Merry Maids in Wakefield, Leeds, York and Harrogate have supported their customers living with dementia.

As part of Merry Maids UK’s ongoing partnership with Alzheimer’s Society, our staff across the UK have completed licensed training to provide help and hope to our customers living with dementia, which makes us the only officially dementia-trained domestic cleaners in the nation!

We’re not just experts in home cleaning.

We’re also a nationwide network of compassionate, friendly, and warm local professionals who always go above and beyond to help the people who trust us daily to clean their homes.

But what does this look like in action?

This blog post shares the story of customers of Merry Maids in Wakefield, Leeds, York and Harrogate and how our dementia-friendly cleaning has helped them.

Meet Mr and Mrs R

Merry Maids has been cleaning for Mrs R’s family for the last ten years.

Four years ago, she was diagnosed with dementia, aged only 58 years old, and the team have been cleaning for her and Mr R ever since to support her in keeping her house a home.

How we help

Initially, we visited every month to stay on top of the cleaning and keep everything tidy.

Today, Mr and Mrs R have increased the frequency of their service to a weekly cleaning from our expert team, ensuring the whole home always looks its best week in and week out.

During this time, due to changes in how her dementia impacts her, the team have adapted their services, like entering through a gate rather than the front door, as Mrs R’s condition means she was at risk of wandering from home unannounced.

Still, Mrs R is elated whenever our staff (or her ladies, as she has dubbed them) call in for her cleanings, greeting them at the door and walking around the house with them, as she likes to see the process of our cleaning in action.

Despite her health, she also likes to dust under our supervision, and Mr R has asked if she can do this whenever Merry Maids is there – which, of course, she can.

Our staff have gotten into a steady rhythm whereby one cleaner stays with Mrs R while she dusts and ensures she has some extra companionship and supervision, while the other maid gets on with the rest of the cleaning.

In an email to our staff, Mrs R shared her satisfaction and delight at seeing our cleaners and the impact our help has:

‘[I] can’t wait to see my ladies, they always bring cheer to us both,’ she says.

‘Oh, and the house is always sparkling when they leave!’

Need a new cleaner?

If you’re in Wakefield, South Leeds, York and Harrogate and need support from a dementia-friendly cleaner backed by over 30 years of brand expertise as a leader in the cleaning industry, call your local experts on 01924 871122.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest Merry Maids business or book online to see how we can help you today.