Living well with dementia

A diagnosis of dementia does not mean your life is over. This section provides you with strategies to live well with dementia, along with tips and advice from other people who are living with dementia.

We want people to understand that life can still be full.
“I want people to understand that life can still be full when you’re living with dementia. It takes work – I have had to learn about my boundaries and focus on the things I care about.” - Ken (pictured above, left), from Vancouver, British Columbia. Ken lives with Alzheimer's disease.

Overview

There is currently no way to stop the progression of most dementias -- including the most common kind, Alzheimer's disease. Still, there are many things you can do to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and slow the progression of the disease into the later stages. Research shows that there are real benefits to making lifestyle choices that can help you stay as healthy as you can be.

While your symptoms are mild to moderate, you will likely know what gives you pleasure and contributes to your sense of well-being. You might like to seek help to adapt to changing abilities and participate in meaningful activities.

As your dementia progresses, you will lose abilities that you may consider important to quality of life. Dementia, however, does not remove your ability to appreciate, respond to and experience feelings such as anger, fear, joy, love or sadness. Things that were important and meaningful for you throughout your life will always be important and meaningful.

Print resources

Heads-Up-for-Healthier-Living-Alzheimer-Society.pdf

Learn more about living well with dementia and download our Heads Up for Healthier Living brochure (print-friendly version), for people living with Alzheimer's disease and their families.

Even if you have another type of dementia, the tips and strategies in this brochure can help you live well.

Heads Up for Healthier Living - cover

Webpage resources

Challenging your brain

Work out your brain! Exercising your mind daily can keep your brain stimulated and can improve the quality of life for a person with dementia.

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Ron Robert at his university.

Following a healthy diet

Make healthy food choices! It not only improves your general health; in the long-term, nutritious food helps maintain your brain function and slows cognitive decline.

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Senior couple eating a healthy meal.

Helping others live well with dementia

By speaking out and sharing what helps you live well with dementia, you can help other people who live with dementia. Learn more about becoming an advocate, finding meaningful engagement and joining a support group in your community.

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Group of seniors using a laptop together.

Living safely and independently

Many people live alone. Living in a place that is safe, familiar and comfortable can help you live well with dementia. Having dementia presents challenges for your safety, but there are things you can do to manage the risks.

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Senior woman on an autumn walk.