Most people have been taught to think of dementia as memory loss. But when you look closely, that definition only scratches the surface. Dementia is not a disease, diagnosis, or brain injury in and of itself—it is a collection of symptoms caused by a wide range of underlying conditions that interfere with brain function. And it shows up in far more ways than simply forgetting names or misplacing keys.
In the Dementia Lifeboat community, one of the most powerful things we teach is this: dementia is about the loss of learned brain functions—thousands of them—that we often take for granted until they begin to fade. These can include anything from mobility and depth perception to creativity and emotional regulation. By shifting how we understand these changes, we open the door to better care, more compassion, and stronger support systems for everyone involved.
Why Memory Loss Is Only Part of the Picture
When someone experiences symptoms of dementia, memory may be the most visible sign—but it is far from the only one. Think about basic tasks like brushing your teeth, walking to the kitchen, or following a conversation. These are not just automatic—they are learned functions that the brain processes through coordination, emotion, judgment, and motor control. When those abilities begin to deteriorate, it can feel like the person is disappearing, but the reality is much more complex.
One of the most overlooked aspects of dementia is how symptoms vary depending on the cause. A stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, Lewy body dementia, cancer affecting the brain, or even certain medications can all lead to dementia symptoms. This means caregivers must shift from trying to fix memory to understanding the larger picture of global brain function loss.
Learning to Think for Them
One of the most important shifts for those supporting someone with dementia is learning to “think for” the person in their care. This may sound extreme at first—but it becomes necessary when the brain is no longer processing everyday information the way it once did. Whether it is deciding what to wear, understanding spatial awareness, or interpreting a facial expression, these are all areas where learned brain function plays a role.
It is essential that family members, care professionals, and loved ones become the thinkers, the interpreters, and the translators. These supporters must bridge the gaps—gently, consistently, and without judgment. Providing this kind of care means letting go of the expectation that someone will function as they once did, and instead learning to meet them with understanding in the reality they are living in today.
The Emotional Layer: What Remains When Other Functions Fade
Even when logic and reasoning fade, emotions remain. This is one of the most important insights for anyone caring for someone with dementia. Feelings—especially those attached to strong memories or meaningful moments—are often the last to go. This is why someone who no longer remembers your name might still smile when you walk in the room or react with sadness to a particular song.
Those supporting someone with dementia must lead with empathy, recognizing that tone of voice, body language, and emotional energy are just as impactful as words. In moments of frustration or confusion, offering comfort instead of correction becomes a powerful and compassionate way to maintain connection.
Who Needs to Be Dementia-Aware? Everyone.
Too often, people assume dementia awareness is only for healthcare professionals or immediate family members. But the truth is, everyone—from faith leaders and community volunteers to neighbors and coworkers—can play a role in making the world more dementia-aware. The more we understand what dementia really is, the more we can build inclusive environments where people feel safe, seen, and supported.
In our Dementia Lifeboat platform, we hear from caregivers of all kinds—chaplains, adult children, retired therapists, activity directors, and more. What they all have in common is a desire to understand and to do better. Our collective stories, when shared, create a ripple effect of change.
Bringing Compassion to the Forefront of Dementia Care
Supporting someone with dementia is not about restoring the past—it is about recognizing who they are now and adjusting how we connect and care. That requires empathy, flexibility, and a better understanding of how dementia symptoms truly work.
That is why I created Dementia Lifeboat—to provide guidance, education, and connection for anyone navigating this path. Inside our growing community, you will find live chats, recorded trainings, expert interviews, and real-world tools that can help you feel informed and supported every step of the way.
For those looking to dive deeper, I also offer professional workshops, family support sessions, and customizable presentations through my website. These resources are designed to help caregivers, healthcare professionals, and organizations better understand and respond to dementia-related needs.
If you are ready to be part of a community that values compassion, clarity, and connection, I invite you to join us at Dementia Lifeboat. You do not have to navigate this alone.