How can I live well with dementia?

When Dementia Advocate Jenny was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease she decided not to let it stand in her way of leading a fulfilling life.

“My motto is keep doing the things you want to do as long as you can,” Jenny said.

“Live every day as though it was your last and keep active both in mind and body.

“I wasn’t going to dwell on it or withdraw into a shell.

“I’ve had a very busy life. I worked in the police force in a civilian role for many years and then volunteered for the Ronald McDonald charity supporting people with sick or ill children.”

Keeping social, eating well and learning new skills

Jenny attends a weekly social group where she plays quizzes, does puzzles and word searches.

She lives in a retired lifestyle village with her husband Graeme and joins in with lots of social activities within the village community.

Maintaining a healthy life means she pays attention to her diet and eats a lot of fresh fruit.

She’s also immersed herself in a relatively new hobby, upcycling furniture for her home.

Jenny calls it her ‘shabby chic passion project’ and has involved her husband.

“I will choose the varnish or paint colour, but Graeme will do the painting,” she said.

“I’m involved with intricate detailing, so I will attach handles or knobs or any stenciling. It keeps my mind sharp.”

Lifestyle changes to prevent dementia

Jenny’s efforts align with the principles that Dementia Australia’s Honorary Medical Advisor Professor Henry Brodaty AO advocates.

“It’s never too late or too early to adopt a healthy lifestyle,” explained Professor Brodaty.

“It’s important to stimulate or stretch the brain and learn new things.

“Diet is also key. Evidence shows that following a Mediterranean diet with plenty of vegetables, nuts, fruits and minimal red meat will guard against memory decline.

“Research indicates that being socially engaged is crucial for overall well-being as it enhances better brain health.”

Looking for more information or support?

For more information about living well with dementia you can visit the Dementia Australia Library Service to choose from our comprehensive collection of print and digital resources about dementia.

You can also talk to one of our friendly Helpline advisers to find out more about living well with dementia or any other question you may have.

You can contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, email helpline@dementia.org.au or webchat dementia.org.au/helpline/helpline-webchat