Embrace Identity

Everyone has a story to tell about their life, habits and characteristics that make us special and unique. Focusing on who you are and what you enjoy can keep us fulfilled.

"Keeping your identity is very important, when you meet someone new they usually ask what you do for a job but once you have dementia you do not have that anymore so it is important to still do things that are important to you."

"I continue to do the things that I enjoy like teaching, learning and sharing my experience with others."

"I try to keep my sense of identity by teaching as that was at the core of who I was when I was working and who I have always been to some extent, since I was a child."

"I work with many different companies within dementia. It is a way of me still working and giving back. I also keep my office full of my accomplishments as it reminds me of who I am"

Chris Norris
Dr Jennifer Bute
Keith Oliver
Lorraine Brown

Top Tips

Dementia does not define who they are

The diagnosis of dementia does not take away who they are! They are still a spouse/life partner, friend, grandparent sibling, colleague, first and foremost. Dementia does not define them and who they have been in their life.

Celebrate who they are

Celebrate who they are and what they have done in their life at every opportunity - Their past achievements, skills, talents, memories. Remind themof the positive impact they have on others and the things they have done! You coulddisplay things their proud of, travel moments, photographs, or compile written notes and achievements in a folder - however they'dprefer!

Create a memory book

Create a beautiful memory book with friends and family. Gather special photos from their life and add simple captions with important details. Use large print and keep the layout clear so it's easy to enjoy. Organise the photos chronologically, focusing on happy memories and moments. You can even present it in a photo album or scrapbook for a special touch! This will create a valuable tool to help trigger memories in years to come.

Compile an 'about me' file

Include things they love, don't love, enjoy doing, and what's most important to them. For example: Music, food, favourite topics to chat about, and their daily routines. Capture as much as possible now, as this information will be valuable later on. You could do this with them, and/or some friends and family that also know them well.

Empowered Identity

Embracing their identity and putting who they are above their diagnosis, they’llfeel a greater sense of dignity, control, and belonging.

Connect with others

Connecting with supportive friends and family can be a great way to share their stories and plans for the future. Joining a local dementia group allows them to connect with others who understand their experiences. These conversations can be incredibly freeing and help them, and you maintain your sense of self and stay positive.

Future plans

Dementia doesn’t mean the end, so keep planning for their future - keep doing what they love, social dates, events, seeing family. As dementia progresses, plans may need to be adjusted or modified, however, it's still so important to keep looking forward! And the act of planning itself can be a valuable and empowering.

Practice self-compassion

Be kind and understanding towards them and yourself. Acknowledge the challenges of living with dementia and celebrate yours and their resilience and courage.