Support
posterior cortical atrophy
In this section:
A diagnosis of posterior cortical atrophy (PCA) can leave a person with many questions.
But with the right information and support, people can live well and carry on doing the things they enjoy for some time.
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Tips for managing symptoms of posterior cortical atrophy at home
Some people with PCA may benefit from using visual aids and resources for people with sight problems.
These may include:
- audio books
- devices with large and simple displays, voice recognition software
- walking aids.
People may choose to carry a cane to let others know they have sight problems.
For more information about visual aids and for support, contact the RNIB.
People may also need to make changes to their home to help them stay independent and move around safely:
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At home, keep pathways clear by removing rugs, clutter and low furniture.
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Adding coloured stickers to glass doors can help someone see them more easily.
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Rooms should be well-lit. In the evenings or at night, nightlights may be helpful.
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Grab-bars in the bathroom and non-slip mats in the kitchen can be useful for safety and independence.
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Try to use plain furnishings, not patterned.
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Contrasting colours (for example, black and yellow) may help make objects clearer and mark edges, e.g. steps or kitchen worktops.
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At mealtimes, try to use plain plates and bowls, and cutlery with bright coloured handles may also help.
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Use a plain tablecloth and set out the plate, glass, etc. in the same way each time.
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Outdoors, different coloured paving may look like steps so try to let the person know that it is flat.
It's important to remember that every person's experience with PCA is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.
You can find out more about supporting someone with PCA by contacting Rare Dementia Support.
Below you can hear from Samantha, whose husband Edward was diagnosed with posterior cortical atrophy. She explains the support they accessed after his diagnosis.
What support is there for people with posterior cortical atrophy (PCA)?
The Rare Dementia PCA Support Group sends out newsletters and holds meetings across different parts of the country.
These Support Group meetings provide opportunities for people affected by PCA to meet others and share their experiences. There is also a supportive Facebook group (search ‘Posterior cortical atrophy awareness’).
You can contact them by email contact@raredementiasupport.org
The Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline offers practical and emotional support to anyone affected by dementia, including advice on managing the symptoms.
Some people with PCA may benefit from using visual aids and resources for people with sight problems.
For more information about visual aids and for support, contact the Royal National Institute of Blind People.
Alzheimer’s Society provides support and care information for people with all forms of dementia and their loved ones and can tell you about local support groups in your area.
You can also talk to your doctor or nurse for advice on caring for someone with PCA.
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Dementia information
Read more about support for people affected by dementia.
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PDF, 4.5 MB, 21 pages
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This information was updated in April 2025 and is due to be reviewed in April 2027. It was written by Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Information Services team with input from lay and expert reviewers. Please get in touch if you’d like a version with references or in a different format.
This information is produced with support from The Perfume Shop who had no input into the content.
