Worldwide, over 45 million people live with dementia. For every person with dementia, their family and carers face the decision of how best to care for them. Live and Laugh with Dementia is all about how to make life with dementia as positive as possible — to maximize quality of life for all concerned. Just as we need to exercise our body’s muscles to keep them strong, flexible and working well, so too do we need to exercise our mental muscles (our brain) to strengthen and maintain our neural capabilities. By tailoring activities to suit the needs and abilities of dementia patients, we can help them to: maintain their relationships with others; maintain their self-identity; slow the decline of mental function by providing physical and mental stimulation; stave off boredom; experience happiness and pleasure.

Live and Laugh with Dementia also addresses our attitudes towards dementia and caring for those with dementia. This updated edition draws on case studies and clinical research to present a wide range of tips and activities that are easy to understand and implement. It supports and inspires carers to build their relationship with the person with dementia and provide meaningful, engaging and tailored activities. Tips for people with mild dementia are included, to empower them to be active and keep control of their lives as much as possible.