[SUMMARY] Purpose : To identify the challenges of family care for older patients with dementia and the support methods employed by community health nurses working at community general support centers, to examine support method characteristics. Methods : Semi-structured interviews with five nurses working at centers（mean duration＝4.4 years）, in one prefecture. Results : Seven family care challenges were identified, including delayed familial recognition and responses, familial stress and difficulty accepting dementia, responsibility for all care for the patient with no support, and elder abuse or inappropriate care. Six forms of support were identified, including considering the perspectives and feelings of families living separately, creating support networks of families and others in the community, encouraging the use of community resources and social systems, and promoting acceptance of dementia among the family and community. Discussion : Family care challenges were characterized by “social isolation of patients and their families because of not seeking help themselves” and a “lack of understanding of dementia among community residents.” The characteristics of support methods were “providing support through outreach for patients and their families who became isolated,” “encouraging community life by connecting patients and their families with cooperators and resources in the community,” and “promoting a better understanding of dementia in the community to help patients and their families live without any worries.” These nursing practices promote inclusive societies in which patients and their families can live without social isolation.