For much of her life, Christine* believed dementia was something to fear.

Her mother lived with dementia. Later, her sister was diagnosed as well. Christine watched the disease take away the people she loved. The experience left a lasting impression, and for years she quietly worried that one day the same thing would happen to her.

“I spent most of my adult life waiting for it,” she says. “I was always watching for signs asking is that dementia or just ‘a senior moment?'”

Then, at age 85, the diagnosis came.

For Christine, it felt like the moment she had been dreading for decades had finally arrived.

Many people think of dementia as a death sentence. While it is true that dementia brings significant challenges and changes, a diagnosis does not mean life suddenly stops. Yet that is often the image people have. They imagine the loss before they imagine the life that remains.

Six months after her diagnosis, Christine is living with the reality of dementia every day.

There are moments of frustration. Things that once came easily can now take more time. She occasionally struggles to find the right word or remember details she feels she should know. There are things she can no longer do exactly as she once did, and that loss is real.

“My brain doesn’t work as well as it used to,” she admits, knowingly downplaying her condition.

There is still fear, too. Fear about what the future may hold and what changes may come next.

But there is also something Christine never expected.

Joy.

While dementia has taken some things from her, it has not taken away her ability to enjoy life.

She still spends time with friends. She still laughs. She still dances when the opportunity arises, finds herself doing things she might not have done before the diagnosis, like dress up for Cowboy Day at her retirement home. She still enjoys conversations, activities, and the simple pleasures that make a good day. In some ways, she says, the diagnosis has made those moments feel even more meaningful.

“Not every day is great,” she admits. “But there are a lot of great days. I’m still having fun.”

Her story is an important reminder that dementia is not the end of a person’s identity. A diagnosis does not erase a lifetime of experiences, relationships, talents, or personality. People living with dementia continue to have hopes, preferences, interests, and the ability to experience happiness and connection.

For those newly diagnosed, experts recommend focusing on what remains possible rather than only on what may change in the future. Staying socially connected, participating in enjoyable activities, maintaining routines, remaining physically active, and seeking support when needed can all contribute to quality of life.

It is also important to talk openly with family members, healthcare providers, and support organizations. No one should have to navigate dementia alone.

Christine knows there will be difficult days ahead. Dementia is not easy, and she does not pretend otherwise. But six months into this new chapter of life, she has learned something she wishes she had known years ago.

A dementia diagnosis changes life, but it does not end it.

There is still laughter. There are still friendships. There are still reasons to celebrate and moments worth remembering.

And perhaps most importantly, there is still life to be lived.

Carefor’s Adult Day Programs for People Living with Dementia

Carefor’s Adult Day Programs for people living with dementia are places where joy continues. They are vibrant, caring and make people feel connected to a community that understands what they are experiencing. They also provide support to the loved ones and caregivers who can drop them off knowing they are well cared for while they get a much needed break.

Carefor offers Adult Day Programs on Carling Avenue in Ottawa and at the North-Stor Support Centre in Finch. To learn more visit https://carefor.ca/programs/adult-day-programs/

*Name has been changed.