Rethink Dementia

Back to list 02/06/2025

The stigma attached to dementia stems partly from this misunderstanding: that those with a diagnosis are less capable and possibly unpredictable. Consequently, people with a diagnosis often find their relationship with friends and family can change to become more limited or stop all together as they worry about that person’s ability to engage in ‘normal’ social interactions given their illness.

Rethink Dementia has been developed in response to insights which show that social contact can help improve overall wellbeing.

If a friend or relative is diagnosed with dementia it’s natural not to know what to do, but helping someone stay connected and socially active can help them stay well for longer.

Key messages

By focusing on the person, not the condition, you can help them get the most from life and stay well for longer
Be yourself. Your friend or relative haven’t changed overnight
Avoid making assumptions and decisions on that person’s behalf – ask and listen to their thoughts
Just popping in for a cup of tea, going to the shops together, going for a walk or continuing to enjoy a hobby together, listening to music, inviting them round for dinner – these things all help people stay connected and socially active

How to help a friend or relative who has been diagnosed with dementia

When a friend or relative is diagnosed with dementia it’s natural not to know what to do, but helping someone stay connected, socially active, and doing many of the things you’ve always
done together, can help them stay well for longer
Making an effort to maintain social contact can help alleviate symptoms of depression, agitation, sleep disturbance, anxiety and apathy that often come with dementia

Reducing these symptoms could help improve their wellbeing. For more information visit nhsinform.scot/RethinkDementia