It starts with the integration of people with dementia into society. One should become more part of this. Society should have more empathy and solidarity for people with dementia. There is no cure for dementia, but dealing with it is not impossible either. Society is shaped by rationality, an understanding of autonomy and, increasingly, algorithms. It is therefore difficult for people with dementia to fit into society. But what exactly is the correct way of dealing with it?

People with dementia can be countered by recognizing their emotions and their special ability to perceive and learning from them. One should try to understand people with dementia. This can be done, for example, by still viewing the person with dementia as an adult and treating them with empathy and equality.

What is certain is that communication with dementia is becoming increasingly difficult, but this can be simplified. Only by using simple and unambiguous language and repeating important information can help. Complex sentences and metaphors or irony and sarcasm are not understood by people with dementia. If you have any questions, you should be careful to limit them to a minimum of alternatives and to ask more yes-no questions. People with dementia need time to respond. Criticism, corrections or discussions usually do not leave a positive effect as it can lead to frustration. Nonverbal communication, however, supports the positive effect.

The strain on the body and the awakening of memories are good means of encouraging people with dementia. This can be done with the help of music, for example. By repeating everyday actions, people with dementia gain independence. Maintaining social contacts can also mean that independence is trained and that what you have learned is retained for longer. The creation of structure and routines can be of great help to people with dementia in coping with everyday life.

Nevertheless, it is important to take care of yourself and not to take over yourself. If necessary, you should regularly take time out from caregiving or seek support from a nursing service.