Why Accurate Representation of Dementia Care Matters
For many families, dementia is one of the most emotionally challenging journeys they will ever face. Decisions about care are often made during periods of uncertainty and distress — which is why how dementia care is portrayed in the media matters.
LuxuryCare recognises that EastEnders has played an important role in highlighting the realities of dementia and the emotional impact it has on individuals and their loved ones. Storylines like these help start vital conversations and shine a light on issues that many families experience every day.
However, following a recent episode featuring a visit to a care home, we have heard concerns from families who felt unsettled by how dementia care settings were represented. While drama naturally heightens emotion, portraying care homes as cold, pressurised or unresponsive risks reinforcing fear or misconceptions for families already facing difficult decisions.
In reality, modern care homes focus on creating warm, familiar environments and providing calm, compassionate, person-centred support — particularly for people living with dementia. Families should be given time, reassurance and guidance when exploring care options, not pressure to make rushed decisions.
“We welcome storylines that raise awareness of dementia and the challenges families face,” said Sam Hoskins Managing Director at LuxuryCare. “But it’s important that care homes are also shown as places of understanding, reassurance and human connection. No one should feel rushed or unsupported when making decisions about care, and that is what our teams work hard to provide every day.”
At LuxuryCare, we recognise the influence television has on public perception. While drama plays an important role in storytelling, accurate and balanced representation of dementia care is vital in helping families feel informed, reassured and supported at a time when they need it most.
