title: Flexible carers can improve the social lives of their patients.
abstract: Older people with dementia, depression or anxiety may be able to cope physically but can become socially isolated and lose the motivation to continue their normal daily activities. Friends may find it difficult to deal with their low mood and changing behaviour. In the past, many social needs were met by home helps but growing demand has meant that these community services are targeted at those who need physical help; people with dementia often do not come into this category.
authors.affiliation: The University of Portsmouth.
authors.forename: Ruth
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Sander