Memory Digest

Living Well with Dementia

For people living with memory loss: staying independent, active and connected, planning ahead, and finding support after a diagnosis.

Last reviewed: October 2026

This article is written for you if you are living with memory loss, mild cognitive impairment, or early-stage dementia.

Hearing the words "you have dementia" can be frightening. You may feel shock, sadness, anger—or relief at finally having an explanation. All of these feelings are normal. But a diagnosis doesn't erase who you are. Many people live meaningful, active lives for years after diagnosis. Here are ideas from people living with dementia and the experts who support them.

Give yourself time

It's okay to take time to absorb the news. Talk with people you trust. Some people find it helpful to write down their thoughts or speak with a counselor. You decide who to tell and when, though sharing with close family and friends usually makes support easier.

Keep doing what you enjoy

Keep up your hobbies, friendships and routines as much as you can. You might need to adapt—shorter outings, simpler recipes, a friend to come along—but staying engaged is good for mood and may help your thinking. Try new things, too: classes, art, music, volunteering, a walking group.

Stay physically active

Exercise is one of the best things you can do. It helps mood, sleep, balance and heart health. Walking, swimming, dancing, gardening and tai chi are all good choices. Aim for some movement every day.

Use memory tools

• A calendar in one visible place, crossing off each day
• Phone alarms for medicines and appointments
• A pill organizer, or blister packs from the pharmacy
• A notebook for important information and to-do lists
• A "landing spot" by the door for keys, wallet, glasses and phone
• Labels on cupboards and drawers
• Automatic bill payments and a trusted person to double-check finances
• Smart speakers for reminders and timers

Look after your health

• Keep regular check-ups and take medicines as prescribed.
• Wear hearing aids and glasses if you need them.
• Control blood pressure and blood sugar.
• Eat well, sleep well, and limit alcohol.
• Tell your doctor about low mood or anxiety—they're common and treatable.

See Reducing Dementia Risk: The 14 Risk Factors for habits that support brain health.

Plan ahead

Planning now lets you stay in charge of your future:

• Choose someone you trust as your financial power of attorney and health care proxy.
• Write an advance directive describing the care you want.
• Talk with your family about where you'd like to live and what matters to you.
• Organize important documents and passwords.
• Think about driving—have your skills assessed, and plan other ways to get around.
• Ask about your options at work, including accommodations and disability benefits.

Stay safe

• Carry ID with an emergency contact.
• Consider a medical ID bracelet or a phone with location sharing.
• Be cautious about phone calls, emails and visitors asking for money or personal information—scams often target people with memory problems.
• If you live alone, arrange regular check-ins with family or neighbors.

Talk about it

Many people find strength in connecting with others who have dementia. The Alzheimer's Association offers early-stage support groups and programs; organizations like the Dementia Action Alliance are led by and for people living with dementia. Some people choose to speak out to reduce stigma and help others.

Explore treatment and research

Ask your doctor about treatment options—including whether anti-amyloid treatments like Lecanemab (Leqembi) or Donanemab (Kisunla) might be right for you if you have early Alzheimer's—and about Non-Drug Treatments for Dementia such as cognitive stimulation therapy. Consider joining a research study; your experience can help others. See Joining a Clinical Trial.

Let others help

Accepting help can be hard, especially if you've always been independent. Think of it as teamwork: let others handle the things that are hardest so you have more energy for what matters most to you.

You are still you

Your values, relationships, sense of humor and life story remain. Focus on what you can do. Many people living with dementia say that a diagnosis helped them prioritize the people and activities they love.

For support any time, call the Alzheimer's Association Helpline at 800-272-3900.

Sources

1. Alzheimer's Association: Living With Alzheimer's—For People With the Disease
2. National Institute on Aging: Living Alone With Dementia
3. Dementia Action Alliance

Not medical advice. This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual. Talk with a doctor about your situation.

Related articles

• Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
• Non-Drug Treatments for Dementia
• Reducing Dementia Risk: The 14 Risk Factors
• Caregiving Guide: Where to Start