Planning with Heart: A Supportive Guide to Dementia Prevention and Care

By Nicole Price

For Older Adults, Families, and Caregivers

As we age, or walk alongside loved ones who are aging, questions about memory loss and dementia can quietly arise or come all  at once.

You might wonder: Can we lower the risk? How do we prepare for the future? How do we stay kind when dementia changes how someone thinks, behaves and feels?

Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or caring for a parent, partner, or friend, this guide offers supportive, down-to-earth steps to help you stay informed, empowered, and compassionate.

Caring for the Brain: Daily Habits that Make a Difference

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, but research shows that small, consistent choices can support brain health over time. Think of it as an act of daily care, for yourself or someone you love.

• Keep moving: Physical activity, even a simple walk or stretch, helps nourish the brain by boosting blood flow and reducing inflammation.
• Eat with intention: Diets like the Mediterranean or MIND plan, rich in greens, berries, whole grains, nuts, and fish are all linked to better brain health.
• Stay socially and mentally engaged: Meaningful conversation, music, puzzles, reading, art, or learning something new can keep the mind active and connected.
• Care for your whole health: Managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes helps reduce dementia risk. Don’t skip checkups or medications.
• Sleep well and seek support: Poor sleep, loneliness, depression, and stress can affect memory and focus. Remember to reach out early, mental and emotional health matter.

Looking Ahead: Planning While You’re Able

Dementia can slowly (or suddenly) change a person’s ability to make decisions. That’s why early conversations, before memory loss sets in, are a gift to your future self and your family.

Start with these gentle but important steps:

• Choose a Power of Attorney (POA): Assign someone you trust to handle healthcare and finances if needed.
• Talk about wishes: Discuss care preferences, living arrangements, and end-of-life values while minds are still clear.
• Organize key documents: Store advance directives, insurance policies, and wills where loved ones can easily access them.
• Involve your family early: Open communication reduces future confusion and helps everyone feel more prepared.

These conversations may feel heavy at first, but they bring relief, too. They offer clarity, reduce stress, and create shared understanding.

When Dementia Arrives Unexpectedly

Sometimes, dementia symptoms come suddenly. A loved one may forget where they are, become fearful, act aggressively or speak in ways that don’t make sense. These moments are often disorienting for everyone involved. Instead of correcting or confronting, try responding with calm and kindness. It helps preserve dignity and reduce distress.

Heartfelt Ways to Communicate

• Join their world: If your loved one believes they need to catch a train or go to work, step into their story instead of insisting on facts. Validation soothes.
• Redirect gently: If someone says, “I need to get ready for my recital,” you might say, “That sounds exciting. Let’s have a snack before you get ready.” This approach, sometimes called “therapeutic fibbing,” helps them feel seen and safe.
• Speak simply and warmly: Use clear, calm language. Visual cues and short sentences work better than long explanations.
• Focus on feelings: Emotional reality matters more than factual accuracy. If they’re upset, offer some comfort, not correction.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Caring for someone with dementia is a journey and no one should walk alone.If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or simply need a break, it’s okay to ask for help.

At Franke Tobey Jones, we’ve walked beside families through aging and memory loss for over a hundred years. Our memory care programs are deeply personalized and grounded in dignity, respect, and warmth.

Whether you’re just beginning to plan or actively seeking support, we’re here to guide you—with heart.

What Matters Most

Dementia may change how a person remembers or speaks, but it never takes away their need for comfort, belonging, and love.

By caring for brain health today, preparing with purpose for tomorrow, and showing gentleness every step of the way, you’re offering the most powerful kind of care there is: peace of mind, for your loved one, and for yourself.

Additional Support Resources

At Franke Tobey Jones, our Senior Wellness and Fitness Program helps residents stay active and independent with classes designed for all ability levels. Our unique Holistic Wellness Program focuses on mental, emotional, spiritual, environmental, vocational, and social/ cultural wellbeing. 

To learn more or get involved, contact Sarah Doerner, our Holistic Wellness Coordinator, at 253-756-6387 or sdoerner@franketobeyjones.com

Alzheimer’s Hotline (open 24/7): 800-272-3900

Website for resources and support: alzwa.org

Support Group For People Whose Partners Have Dementia

3^rd Wednesday of each month at 3pm

Join us for a gathering of a support group focused specifically for those who are assisting a loved one with Dementia. This support group is led by Kay Coulter, a resident at FTJ. Kay is a seasoned community mental health nurse with experience supporting older adults as they navigate the challenges of aging. You must RSVP with Sarah Doerner to reserve your spot and receive the location. This meeting is capped at 12 people. 

Other Support Group Meetings (Call 800-272-3900 for more details):

• Tacoma: 1st Thursday, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (in person)
• Tacoma: 1st Wednesday, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (in person)
• University Place: 1st Tuesday, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM (in person)

If you have questions, or if we can help you, please call us at 253-752-6621.