HOME carers need more training to look after people with dementia, a report has found.
A Healthwatch Isle of Wight survey, the results of which were published this week, highlighted a lack of consistency in home care and revealed some carers needed further training to understand the needs of people with dementia.
Having up to six different carers entering a home each day can confuse and distress someone with dementia, the watchdog said.
It was also found some patients refused lunch at 12.15pm as they had eaten breakfast at 11.30am, which meant they went without food until 6pm.
Others had difficulty in arranging their home care package and communicating with care agencies and the Isle of Wight Council's social care department.
Joanna Smith, from Healthwatch Isle of Wight, said the survey led to some positive feedback and some users praised their carers for going over and above what was expected of them, but issues were highlighted in a number of areas.
"There are some issues around dementia care and a lack of awareness," she said.
"A lack of consistency of carers leads to confusion with dementia patients, and this was something that relatives brought up."
As a result of the report, Healthwatch Isle of Wight has asked the council to make sure people who fund their own care have easy access to support.
An urgent review of communication and correspondence has also been requested, as well as the opportunity for people to rate their care providers.