Mental Health and Dementia

Mental health is a serious but important topic, especially for people living with dementia and their caregivers. It affects how we think, feel, manage stress, maintain relationships, and participate in daily life. Dementia is often associated with memory loss, but it also deeply impacts emotional and psychological well-being. People living with dementia can experience mood changes, anxiety, depression, and even aggression, which can be overwhelming for both the person and their care partners. Maintaining mental health can be achieved with a few thoughtful strategies. Below are some thoughtful and simple ways people living with dementia and their care partners can relieve stress.

For Someone Living with Dementia:

• Create a Healthy Sleep Schedule: Consistent sleep is very important for emotional stability and cognitive function. A regular and consistent bedtime routine can help create better rest.

• Engage in Simple Activities: Activities like puzzles, music therapy, reading, or reminiscence therapy can help engage the mind and maintain cognitive function.

• Use Cognitive Aids: Tools like reminder notes, clocks, and calendars can help individuals with dementia stay oriented to time and place and lessen anxiety.

• Organize the Home and Personal Belongings: Keeping the home environment neat and

  clutter-free reduces stress and creates a more calming atmosphere.

• Engage in Physical Activity: Breathing exercises and regular exercise, even gentle movement such as walking or stretching, can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance cognitive function.

For Care Partners:

• Acknowledge and Manage Stress: Caregiving can be emotionally challenging. It is important to take moments throughout the day for stress relief, whether through relaxation techniques, taking breaks, or participating in support groups.

• Prioritize Self-Care: Care partners often neglect their own mental health. Taking time for personal activities, hobbies, and rest is crucial to avoid burnout and maintain a positive attitude.

• Create a Support Network: Reach out to other caregivers or family members for support. This can help relieve any feelings of isolation.

• Set Realistic Expectations: It is important to recognize that caregiving can be challenging. Setting achievable goals for the day can help caregivers avoid feeling overwhelmed.

While everyone copes differently, the above suggestions can help improve well-being. It is crucial to acknowledge your feelings and choose approaches that work best for you and your loved ones!

Special thanks to our Yeshiva University Occupational Therapy (OT) students this winter, Mia Gerszberg and Chloe Krasne, for brainstorming and contributing to this article!

Published in the Memory Center newsletter March 2026.