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June 13, 2024

People With Dementia Can Still Experience Joy

Carrie Aalberts | Senior Living Minute: People With Dementia Can Still Experience Joy

Many assume that dementia and joy cannot coexist—but that could not be further from the truth.

In this Senior Living Minute, Carrie Aalberts challenges the misconception that people with dementia are unable to feel joy. While dementia may change the way individuals express and experience happiness, it does not erase their ability to feel it. The real challenge? Overcoming our own biases as caregivers, family members, and care providers to ensure we are not inadvertently taking joy away.

Guest: Carrie Aalberts | Join the Discussion on LinkedIn! 💬

Transcript: People With Dementia Can Still Experience Joy

Joy and dementia are not often thought of together. You do not hear, “That person has dementia—they must be having a great time.” That is not how we think, and that is okay. Dementia is not fun.

However, it is heartbreaking to hear people say that joy is no longer possible for those with dementia because their brain cannot experience it anymore. That could not be further from the truth.

What is even more concerning is that our own biases as caregivers, providers, or family members can take away their joy. We must educate ourselves to understand that joy evolves throughout life—whether someone has dementia or not.

  • Our experiences and preferences change over time
  • We must meet people where they are and recognize what brings them joy now
  • Every joyful moment is one worth embracing and celebrating

Dementia does not erase the ability to feel happiness—but it is up to us to ensure that we are creating opportunities for joy, rather than taking them away.