3 ways you can support people living with dementia

(NC) Living with dementia might look different than you expect. Many people can still be engaged in their communities and enjoy their favourite activities – even years after their dementia diagnosis. Here are three ways you can help people living with dementia be included

1 and supported. Lead with respect. Treating people living with dementia with respect and dignity can go a long way to creating a community that is welcoming and supportive. Refuse to accept action and language from others that is belittling, patronizing, or discriminatory toward people living with dementia. Your actions can help encourage an inclusive environment and help discourage stigma and negative attitudes toward dementia.

2 Challenge stereotypes. There’s a lot of misinformation about dementia that may result in people wanting to hide their symptoms and isolate themselves. Dementia can vary greatly across people, settings and time, and you can challenge stereotypes. People living with dementia can often continue to participate in social events and activities, take care of family members and contribute to their communities.

3 Look to your community. Many communities across Canada are working to become more dementia-inclusive. These communities provide opportunities and create spaces that make it easier for people living with dementia to remain engaged and active. This may include providing physical environments that are easy to access and navigate, such as easy-tounderstand signs, and social environments that are welcoming for people living with dementia, making it easier to stay connected with others and participate in community events. Find out what your community is doing to become more dementia-inclusive and how you can help.

Learn more about how you can support people living with dementia at canada.ca/dementia.