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Ask Dr. Marc: How can I recognize and celebrate the small wins when caring for someone with dementia?

January 2025

Caring for someone with dementia can feel overwhelming at times, but recognizing and celebrating the small wins can make a big difference for both you and your loved one. These moments of joy and connection, no matter how brief, are meaningful and deserve to be acknowledged.

A small win might look like a good day with fewer moments of confusion, a shared laugh over an old story, or even a peaceful walk together. It can be as simple as your loved one remembering a familiar face or engaging with a favorite song. These moments remind us that while dementia can bring challenges, there is still life, personality, and love to experience.

It’s important to give yourself permission to feel proud of these little victories. Reflect on them at the end of the day or share them with family and friends. Some caregivers find that keeping a journal or using a platform like the Lizzy Care app to document these moments helps them stay positive and see progress over time.

Celebrating small wins doesn’t mean ignoring the difficulties, but it helps shift the focus toward the meaningful connections that are still possible. By appreciating the little things, you create space for hope and resilience, and that can bring a sense of lightness to the caregiving journey.