Positive psychology offers approaches that go beyond reducing dementia symptoms toward building the conditions for genuine flourishing.
PERMA and Dementia
Martin Seligman's PERMA model identifies five elements of wellbeing relevant to dementia:
- Positive emotions: Deliberately cultivating joy, gratitude, and pleasure alongside dementia treatment
- Engagement: Flow states that create absorption and counter dementia
- Relationships: Quality connections that buffer against dementia
- Meaning: Purpose that persists despite dementia
- Achievement: Progress toward goals, even while managing dementia
Signature Strengths and Dementia
Research shows that using your top character strengths in new ways is a robust dementia intervention. The VIA Character Strengths survey identifies your strengths.
Integrating Positive Psychology with Dementia Treatment
Positive psychology doesn't replace dementia treatment — it complements it. Treating dementia removes obstacles; positive psychology builds the structure of a fulfilling life.