Keeping Your Brain Strong: Dementia Care Tips for Brain Health

A healthy brain is important at every stage of life. While dementia can affect memory, thinking, communication and daily activities, there are many ways to support brain health and overall well-being. Small, meaningful activities each day can help keep the brain engaged and support quality of life.

Keep Your Mind Active

Keeping the brain engaged through familiar and enjoyable activities may help maintain thinking skills and provide a sense of purpose.

• Read books, newspapers or magazines.
• Complete puzzles, word searches or simple games.
• Listen to music and sing along to favorite songs.
• Look through family photos and share memories.
• Participate in group activities such as bingo, crafts and other social activities.

Choose activities that are enjoyable and appropriate for your abilities. The goal is participation and connection—not perfection.

Keep Your Body Moving

Physical activity supports overall health and can contribute to brain health and emotional well-being.

• Take walks when possible.
• Participate in chair exercises or other activities appropriate for your abilities.
• Dance or move to music.
• Join an exercise program designed for older adults.

Even small amounts of movement throughout the day can be beneficial.

Eat for Brain Health

Good nutrition and hydration support overall health and help the brain function at its best.

• Eat fruits and vegetables every day.
• Choose whole grains and lean proteins.
• Include healthy fats, such as fish, nuts and olive oil, when possible.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

If you have specific dietary needs or concerns, talk with your healthcare provider or care team.

Get Good Rest

Good sleep is important for brain function, mood and overall well-being.

• Keep a regular bedtime and wake-up routine.
• Create a quiet, comfortable and relaxing sleep environment.
• Talk with your nurse or healthcare provider about ongoing sleep concerns.

Stay Connected

Social interaction helps keep the mind engaged and supports emotional well-being.

• Visit with family and friends.
• Join meals and group activities.
• Share stories, laugh and enjoy conversations with others.

Even a short visit can provide meaningful connection.

Reduce Stress

Finding ways to relax can support emotional well-being and help create a sense of calm.

• Listen to relaxing music.
• Spend time outdoors when possible.
• Practice deep breathing or quiet relaxation.
• Enjoy favorite hobbies and spiritual activities.

Follow Your Care Plan

Following your care plan is an important part of living well with dementia.

• Take medications as prescribed.
• Attend healthcare appointments.
• Tell your nurse or healthcare provider about any new confusion, pain or changes in behavior.

Changes in behavior or mental status can sometimes signal an underlying health concern, so it is important to communicate changes with your care team.

Remember: Meaningful Moments Matter

Living with dementia does not take away the need for love, purpose, connection and meaningful relationships. Every smile, conversation, activity and moment of connection can support emotional well-being and quality of life.

How Families Can Help

Families can support a person living with dementia in simple, meaningful ways:

• Visit often, even if the visit is brief.
• Bring familiar photos or favorite music.
• Share stories and memories.
• Speak slowly and clearly.
• Offer reassurance and a calm presence.
• Encourage participation in activities without creating pressure.
• Celebrate small successes and meaningful moments.

Together, residents, families and caregivers can help keep minds active, hearts happy and everyday moments meaningful.

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At United Church Homes and our Center for Abundant Aging, we believe everyone deserves to live a life filled with purpose, connection, and well‑being. Stay informed, inspired, and engaged with resources that support aging abundantly—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.