Imagine a world where a dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis isn’t seen as a loss but can empower those experiencing symptoms to find new meaning and continue living fulfilling lives. While there’s no cure yet for dementia, exciting research suggests that happiness might be a powerful tool – both for preventing dementia and living well with it. 

How Embracing Happiness Can Enhance Life with Dementia

This positive approach is the focus of a conversation between Dr. Laurie Santos and psychologist Emily Willroth on the podcast The Happiness Lab: Can Happiness Ward Off Dementia?. In this blog post, we’ll explore their insights and discover how fostering happiness can empower individuals and families facing dementia. 

Happiness Can be a Protective Shield Against Dementia 

As we live longer lives, dementia is becoming a more common challenge. Statistics tell us that today, dementia affects one in ten people over the age of 65, and a staggering one in three people over the age of 85. The World Health Organization estimates that by 2050, over 139 million people worldwide will be living with dementia.  While these numbers can feel overwhelming, there is hope. 

Dr. Willroth cites recent studies on the link between wellbeing and dementia, as highlighted in the 2024 World Happiness Report. She emphasizes a key finding, sharing that, “individuals who have higher levels of wellbeing are at a lower risk for experiencing dementia.”  

This link, Dr. Willroth explains, goes deeper – to the heart of healthy behavior. She shares that, “people with higher wellbeing are more likely to be engaged in various activities that are really important for cognitive and brain health.”  

Happiness promotes healthy behaviors like exercise, social interaction, and avoiding smoking. It also strengthens our resilience to chronic stress, which can be detrimental to brain health. 

And the best news is, the positive effects of wellbeing are not temporary but extend into the future. Dr. Willroth explains this point, sharing, “those people who had the highest levels of wellbeing early in the study, were less likely to develop dementia at any point for the remainder of the study period. And in many cases, for the remainder of their lives.” 

Interestingly, research suggests happiness might even benefit those already diagnosed with dementia. Studies show that individuals with higher well-being tend to keep their cognitive abilities for longer, even as the disease progresses. This suggests that well-being in dementia doesn’t change the underlying pathology but rather affects how people use their remaining cognitive skills.  

In other words, happiness may help people with dementia function better even while experiencing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. 

Building the Pillars of Happiness 

But what does it mean to be truly healthy and happy? The World Health Organization defines total health as a state of complete well-being, including mental, physical, and social aspects. This is often referred to as the “health triangle,” and keeping these three areas balanced is the key to a healthy and happy life. 

The good news? Happiness is a skill you can learn!  

Here are some strategies to cultivate happiness: 

• Social Connection: Strong social bonds are key to happiness. Spend time with loved ones, join support groups, and build connections across generations – all these contribute to well-being. 

• Physical Activity: Getting regular exercise, whether it’s walking, dancing, or swimming, not only improves your physical health but also boosts your mood and brain function. 

• Lifelong Learning: Keep your mind sharp! Learn new skills, read, or take classes. This mental stimulation builds cognitive resilience and protects your brain health. 

Shifting the Focus of Dementia Diagnosis from Loss to Possibility 

Dementia is often associated with loss, but a happiness-focused approach encourages a shift in perspective. Willroth shared her thoughts that it is “important to understand what we can do to maintain quality of life and wellbeing, and help individuals live well with dementia – given that there is no cure.”   

She emphasizes that, instead of dwelling on what is lost, we can focus on the opportunities for joy and purpose that still exist, allowing those experiencing the symptoms of dementia to live a “meaningful, purposeful, joyful life.” 

This approach applies to individuals with dementia and to their caregivers. Dr. Willroth suggests a shift in focus for caregivers – prioritizing happiness over managing unwanted behaviors and distress. By creating a supportive environment that fosters positive interactions and engaging in creative activities like music or art, caregivers can significantly contribute to the well-being of both themselves and the person with dementia. 

The environment we live in also plays a significant role in our happiness. For individuals with dementia, supporting a sense of familiarity and comfort is important. Aging in place, when safe, or creating a home-like atmosphere in specialized dementia care communities can significantly improve wellbeing.  

Prioritizing Caregiver’s Well-being 

Caring for someone with dementia can take an emotional toll, and Dr. Willroth highlights the dangers of stress on both the caregiver and the person with dementia. She emphasizes that “stress can be really harmful for different bodily systems that are important for brain health and can impact risk for dementia.” This stress can negatively affect our immune system, cardiovascular functioning, and neuroendocrine system (responsible for managing hormone release throughout the body). 

That’s why it’s so important for caregivers to prioritize their own well-being and protect their emotional, physical and mental health while caring for their loved ones. Leaning on social support networks, seeking help from professionals, taking a break by using respite care services, and engaging in self-care practices are essential for supporting emotional strength and resilience. 

A Brighter Future for Dementia Care 

The future of dementia care is bright, with the focus shifting to fostering happiness and well-being. By incorporating these strategies into our memory care communities, we at Radiant Senior Living, empower individuals with dementia to thrive and support caregivers in their vital roles.  

Remember, it’s never too late to prioritize happiness and cognitive health. Let’s embrace a more positive future for dementia care, one brimming with hope.