Their disease can cause people with dementia tofeel socially isolated.This can have a negative impact on social relationships with family and friends. There are effective interventions that focus on restoring social contacts and maintaining interaction and communication with others.

Assistive technology

Assistive technology can be any form of electronic device that allows a person to perform a task that he or she would otherwise be unable to do. Assistive technology can support people with dementia in any of the following four areas: general or personalised information, practical support with regard to the symptoms of dementia; social contact and company; and health monitoring and perceived safety. Assistive devices include a wide range of items, such as simple 'low tech' calendar clocks, to 'high tech' telecare sensors.

Cognitive therapy

Cognitive therapy aims to slow down cognitive decline, or improve cognitive capacity in people with dementia by stimulating memory and thinking. It involves therapies like cognitive stimulation and cognitive rehabilitation. These therapies use exercises to improve attention, and a wide range of activities, such as word games, puzzles, music, conversations on particular topics and practical activities such as gardening. Typically, cognitive training is carried out by trained staff with a small group of people with dementia at least two times a week.

Continuous support programme

Integrated long-term intervention programme for people with dementia and their carers, providing daytime activities and psychosocial support for people with dementia. In addition the program offers psychosocial support, and information on dementia and available services for informal carers.

Memory aid

Memory aids can support people with dementia in coping with disabilities they experience in their daily life. Frequently used memory aids are calendars and diaries.

Sensory stimulation

This therapy provides stimulation via the senses of touch, sight, hearing, smell and taste and is usually carried out in a dedicated room. The aim of sensory stimulation is to create a feeling of safety and stimulation, where the person with dementia is in control. 'Snoezelen' is a well-known type of sensory stimulation.