Social engagement
Social engagement plays a vital role in the wellbeing of a person with dementia. Staying socially active can help slow cognitive decline, reduce feelings of isolation and improve overall quality of life.
Social engagement plays a vital role in the wellbeing of a person with dementia. Staying socially active can help slow cognitive decline, reduce feelings of isolation and improve overall quality of life.
Social engagement stimulates the brain, helping preserve memory, communication skills and emotional health. Activities such as group conversations, singing, games or simply spending time with loved ones can ease anxiety, reduce depression and calm agitation. Regular interaction also gives a stronger sense of identity and belonging, reminding the person with dementia that they are a valued member of the community.
As dementia progresses, communication becomes more difficult and confusion and memory loss become more common, making social engagement more challenging. Sometimes a person with dementia wants to withdraw from company because they feel embarrassed, overwhelmed by noise or unfamiliar faces, or anxious about forgetting names or topics.
Carers and loved ones may also find it challenging to create social opportunities, especially if the behaviour of the person with dementia becomes unpredictable or if moving around is difficult.
Here are some tips that can help a person with dementia to continue to feel engaged:
• Choose activities that feel familiar, simple and match the interests and abilities of the person with dementia.
• Stick to consistent schedules and familiar environments to reduce stress and make participation easier.
• Encourage loved ones to communicate patiently and compassionately.
• Try dementia-friendly social groups, memory cafés or day centres that provide safe and supportive places for interaction. To find out more about what’s available, click here.
Carers and loved ones can support social engagement by using empathy, creativity and flexibility. Even short, meaningful interactions can leave a lasting, positive impact.