Dementia is not just a medical condition; it’s a life-changing experience that affects not only the individual diagnosed but also their family, friends, and caregivers. While we often hear about memory loss and cognitive decline, what’s rarely discussed is how the world around them can make this journey easier—or much harder.
Creating a truly supportive environment for someone living with dementia goes beyond routine care. It requires understanding, patience, and most importantly, a shift in how we see and treat those affected.
In our recent conversation with dementia advocates Mary Beth and Jessica, they shared eye-opening insights about how diversity, cultural identity, and inclusion play a major role in dementia care. They reminded us that caregiving isn’t just about helping with daily tasks—it’s about ensuring that every person with dementia feels seen, heard, and valued.
A World That Doesn’t Always Understand Dementia
One of the biggest challenges for people living with dementia is the way society interacts with them. In many cases, people don’t know how to respond. They talk over them, ignore them, or assume they can’t contribute to a conversation. Others don’t recognize the unique cultural or personal experiences that shape how dementia is understood and managed.
This lack of awareness can lead to frustration, isolation, and even discrimination. Imagine walking into a space where no one tries to understand your needs, where people assume what’s best for you without asking. This is the reality for many individuals with dementia.
According to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada, more than 615,000 Canadians currently live with dementia, and that number is expected to increase by 187% in the next 30 years. This means more families will be facing this challenge, and the way we support them needs to evolve.
So, what can caregivers and family members do? How can we create a truly supportive environment—one that goes beyond basic care and genuinely improves the lives of those affected?
1. Listen First, Act Second
Caregivers often feel the need to take charge, but one of the most powerful things you can do is simply listen. Jessica emphasized the importance of asking, “What do you need? What would be most helpful for you?” rather than assuming you know the best approach.
Each person’s dementia journey is unique, shaped by their background, culture, and personal experiences. Instead of following a one-size-fits-all approach, start by understanding what’s important to them.
- Do they prefer a quiet environment or background music from their childhood?
- Are they comforted by certain religious or cultural practices?
- Do they have specific foods that bring them comfort or trigger memories?
By being curious and open, you create a space where they feel respected and understood.
2. Respect Cultural Differences in Dementia Care
Many people don’t realize that dementia is experienced differently across cultures. In some communities, memory loss is seen as a natural part of aging and isn’t openly discussed. In others, there may be stigma or fear associated with a diagnosis.
Jessica shared insights from her work with Asian families, where some caregivers struggled to talk about dementia openly. For some, seeking help felt like a sign of failure, leading families to care for their loved ones in isolation. Understanding these cultural nuances helps caregivers offer better, more tailored support.
What you can do:
- Be mindful of cultural traditions when providing care.
- If the family is hesitant to accept outside help, offer support in a way that aligns with their values.
- Encourage open discussions by providing resources in different languages and cultural contexts.
3. Create a Sense of Belonging, Not Just Care
Mary Beth spoke about the importance of inclusion and belonging. People living with dementia often feel as if they are losing their place in the world. They may no longer work, drive, or participate in the same social activities, leading to feelings of isolation.
Creating a supportive environment means finding ways to keep them engaged:
- Encourage them to participate in conversations instead of speaking for them.
- Include them in household activities, even in small ways, so they feel useful.
- Take them to familiar places that hold happy memories.
Even simple acts, like making eye contact and speaking to them directly, can make a world of difference.
4. Challenge the Stigma
Dementia is often misunderstood, and stereotypes can make life harder for those living with it. People may assume that someone with dementia is incapable of making decisions, contributing to conversations, or enjoying life. These assumptions strip them of their dignity and independence.
Caregivers and family members can challenge this stigma by:
- Educating others about dementia and how it affects people differently.
- Encouraging community programs that include individuals with dementia.
- Speaking up when they see discrimination or unfair treatment.
The more we normalize dementia and treat those affected with dignity, the more supportive our communities will become.
5. Care for the Caregivers
Caregiving is emotionally and physically demanding, and burnout is real. Supporting people with dementia also means supporting their caregivers. When caregivers feel overwhelmed, it affects the quality of care they can provide.
If you are a caregiver:
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
- Join support groups where you can share experiences and gain advice.
- Take breaks, even if it’s just for a short walk or a moment of quiet time.
Supporting dementia caregivers isn’t just about providing them with resources—it’s about making sure they feel valued and appreciated.
The world is changing, and dementia care must change with it. As the number of people living with dementia grows, we need to build communities that are not only aware but also actively supportive.
This means:
✅ Listening to the voices of those living with dementia.
✅ Recognizing the impact of culture and diversity in care.
✅ Creating environments that promote dignity, inclusion, and belonging.
✅ Challenging the stigma surrounding dementia.
✅ Supporting caregivers so they can continue providing compassionate care.
Dementia is not just about memory loss—it’s about people, relationships, and the way we support one another through one of life’s most challenging experiences. As Mary Beth and Jessica emphasized, a truly supportive environment isn’t just about what we do—it’s about how we see and treat those affected by dementia. It starts with small, everyday actions that make a big difference.
Additional Resources:
For those interested in exploring further, here are some valuable resources related to dementia.
- Paul Lea’s Website – Insights and experiences from Paul Lea.
- Dr. Allen Power of Research Institute for Aging – Research and perspectives on aging and dementia.
- By Us For Us Guides – Practical tips and strategies from people living with dementia and their care partners.
- In the Moment – A resource for family members supporting loved ones with dementia.
- Christine Bryden’s Website – Christine Bryden’s journey and insights on living well with dementia.
- Alzheimer Society Landmark Study Report 2 – Comprehensive research on dementia in Canada.
- Dementia Action Alliance: Calling All Voices Project – Includes podcasts and white papers on diverse perspectives in dementia care.
Concerned about your loved one’s brain health? Let us help. Call (647) 771.2273 today to speak with our caring team and get the support you deserve.