There are many factors, some of which are mentioned above.
Falls can undermine confidence in independent activities and the old adage ‘use it or lose’ it is very true with ageing people. If someone is fearful of leaving home, they become isolated and out of practice with everyday things. They lose muscle tone and mobility reduces.
There should be a diagnosis following scan and there should be input from the Admiral nurse at the local trust. If she’s at home and falling, a referral to the falls team and/or frailty team would be helpful.
There are ways to reduce falls risks including medicines reviews, specialist equipment for the lavatory and bed, better lighting, hearing check etc. There are also ways to encourage memory retention and support independent safely. It isn’t a cure, but can help significantly.
Unfortunately day care services have all but disappeared during the pandemic, but there might be something locally..
Keep her drinking tea. As much as possible. The only problem is very large quantities (litres a day) can upset sodium balance- but rare for older people to drink too much, as they are worrying about lavatory visits.
Some people with dementia are much less cognisant later in the day. It’s known as the sundowner effect and anything requiring them to be at their best is usually more helpful if it’s in the morning. Not everyone gets this, but many do.
Alcohol is a significant risk factor, but who would deny someone with dementia a cold cider occasionally? It’s about balancing risks with retaining quality of life.
People are often much worse after any hospital visit. Hospitals are chaotic, noisy, frightening places and increase delirium.