Part 2: What to Look For
Table of Contents
There’s no single sign that someone is living with dementia – but over time, you may start to notice patterns or subtle changes in how a person interacts with their environment or with others.
Equally important, you may notice moments when someone seems comfortable, capable, or especially at ease. These are valuable opportunities to build trust and strengthen relationships.
The accordion sections below outline key things to notice when building situational awareness. The first two sections include Pause and Reflect prompts, designed to help you think more deeply about positive moments and signs that someone may need extra support.
Space is provided in the companion workbook for you to record your reflections if you choose.
Respond warmly when someone:
- Greets you with recognition or enthusiasm – even if they can’t recall your name.
- Successfully completes a task they previously found challenging.
- Expresses pride, humour, or relief after finding their way or finishing an activity.
- Engages comfortably in small talk or sharing a story.
When you notice and acknowledge these moments, it can help build trust, confidence and reinforce a sense of belonging.
Pause and Reflect:
Think about a time when you have noticed and built on an opportunity to build connection, even if it doesn’t relate to dementia.
- How did it make you feel to witness and encourage one of these moments?
Be aware of individuals who:
- Appear unsure of where to go, even in familiar areas.
- Repeat questions or struggling to follow instructions.
- Show signs of frustration, embarrassment, or anxiety.
Pause and Reflect:
We can’t be aware of everything all the time, so it’s helpful to be intentional about where we focus our attention. Take a moment to think about a place or situation in your own life where you might interact with someone living with dementia.
- When and where might a person need a little extra support?
- How could noticing this help you focus your awareness where it will have the most impact?
Situational awareness doesn’t stop once you begin a conversation – it continues throughout the interaction. A person’s comfort, focus, or confidence can shift quickly, especially if they’re tired, overwhelmed, or having a hard time processing information. At the same time, someone who started off hesitant might relax and engage more as they feel supported. Paying attention to these shifts, both positive and negative, helps you adjust your approach in the moment.
During a conversation, pay attention to:
- Signs of confusion or overload, like repeated questions, hesitation, or distraction.
- Changes in body language or tone, such as frustration, embarrassment, or relief.
- Moments of confidence or calm.
- Connection between companions.
When you look out for subtle changes in mood or actions, you are able to adjust your behaviour to be as supportive as possible.
Being aware isn’t only about spotting difficulties. It’s about recognizing and celebrating the good days, the small wins, and the moments of connection that help build trust.
When you take time to notice these positive cues, you help reinforce dignity, confidence, and inclusion, and create an environment where people living with dementia can continue to participate fully in community life.