Dementia

Living well with dementia

Planning ahead, keeping routines and staying connected can help people with dementia live well and stay independent for longer.

Written by Neil Hyde Last checked 1 minute read

On this page
  1. Routines and reminders
  2. Staying active and connected
  3. Safety at home
  4. Plan ahead
  5. Driving
  6. For carers
  7. Support

Routines and reminders

  • keep a daily routine
  • use calendars, notes, pill organisers and phone reminders
  • label cupboards and keep important things in the same place

Staying active and connected

Keep doing things you enjoy. Physical activity, hobbies and seeing people help wellbeing. Many areas have memory cafes and dementia-friendly activities.

Safety at home

Telecare, such as sensors, alarms and GPS trackers, can help people live at home safely. See home adaptations and equipment.

Plan ahead

  • make a lasting power of attorney (LPA) for money and for health, while you are able to. Once someone lacks capacity, it is too late
  • make a will, and think about advance care planning
  • talk to your family about your wishes

Driving

You must tell the DVLA if you have dementia. Many people can keep driving for a while, depending on their assessment.

For carers

Caring for someone with dementia is demanding. Look after yourself, ask for a carer's assessment, and use breaks (respite). See help for carers.

Support

Alzheimer's Society runs Dementia Connect support, and Dementia UK runs a helpline with Admiral Nurses.

Sources we used

We check this page at least once a year, and sooner when the rules change. Read how we check our facts, or tell us if something looks wrong.