Caring for someone living with dementia can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with challenging behaviours or unexpected changes. If you've been referred to DSA's Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Service (DBMAS), you're taking an important step toward accessing specialised support tailored to your unique situation.
DSA’s Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Service (DBMAS) is a free, nationwide service designed to support carers of people living with dementia through practical strategies and tools – whilst always keeping you and the person you support at the centre of any advice about their care.
All referrals are based on the following key values:
- Person-centred: The process focuses on understanding the individual’s story, routines, and preferences.
- Accessible: Support is always available via our helpline 24/7, 365 days of the year, on 1800 699 799.
- Collaborative: DSA works with carers, families, and care teams to ensure the best outcomes for the person living with dementia.
What happens during a DSA home visit?
- Scheduling the visit
If after the initial discussion, a home visit is considered the best option, DSA works with you to find a time that suits your family. The team is flexible and will fit around your needs.
- Understanding your situation
During the visit, a DSA Dementia Consultant will talk with you about the behaviours or changes you’ve noticed in the person you are supporting. The goal is to explore the reasons behind these changes, whether they’re related to dementia itself, daily routines, or other factors.
- Gathering personal information
DSA Dementia Consultants know that every person is unique. They’ll ask about likes, dislikes, preferences, life history, and past occupations. This helps them develop strategies that are genuinely tailored to the personal circumstances of the person you are caring for.
- Developing tailored strategies
Based on what you share, your consultant will recommend practical steps to address challenges—such as changes to routines, communication techniques, or ways to reduce distress to help improve quality of life.
- Providing a summary letter
After the visit, you’ll receive a letter summarising the recommendations. This gives you a clear guide to refer to, which you can also share with family members, your GP and other professionals sharing in the care of the person you support.
Examples of questions your DSA team may ask during a home visit
To provide the best support, DSA Dementia Consultants may ask questions such as:
- What behaviours or actions have you noticed that are causing concern or distress?
- When did these changes start, and do you see any patterns or triggers?
- Has the person been unwell – or is there a history of pain or recent medication changes?
- What helps to calm or comfort the person when they’re distressed?
Why these questions matter
These questions help our team build a holistic understanding of your loved one and your caring experience. The answers guide the development of tailored, practical recommendations that respect the individual’s identity and personal history, to support both the person living with dementia and their carer – you.
Ongoing support
Our DSA behaviour support service is here to walk alongside you, offering expert advice and practical strategies so you can feel confident and supported in your caring role – and so you know you’re never alone on your caring journey.
Call our 24-hour helpline on 1800 699 799
