The 7 Domains of Well-Being (Dr. Power)

A Family Caregiver’s Guide to Helping Your Loved One Live Well

As dementia progresses, it's natural to focus on what has changed or what has been lost. But, according to Geriatrician Dr. G. Allen Power, quality dementia support isn't measured only by managing symptoms — it's measured by supporting what makes us human.

Dr. Power believes every person, regardless of age or cognitive ability, has seven fundamental needs that contribute to well-being. While dementia may change how those needs are met, it does not eliminate them.

When you're unsure what the person living with dementia needs, these seven domains can serve as a simple guide. Instead of asking, "What's wrong?" try asking, "Which human need might need more attention right now?"

1. Identity: Do they still feel like themselves?

Identity is everything that makes a person who they are: their history, relationships, interests, routines, values, beliefs and personality.

Ask yourself: Am I honoring who they are, not just what they need?

You can support identity by:

• Calling them by their preferred name.
• Talking about favorite memories.
• Continuing traditions and hobbies of interest whenever possible.
• Celebrating the roles that still matter to them.

2. Connectedness: Do they feel loved and included?

People living with dementia continue to desire relationships, belonging, companionship and opportunities to connect with others.

Ask yourself: Who or what helps them feel connected? What did the person “connect” with prior to diagnosis?

You can support connectedness by:

• Sharing meals together.
• Looking through family photos.
• Spending time outdoors.
• Encouraging visits from familiar people.

3. Security: Do they feel safe?

Security isn't only physical safety — it also means emotional safety, familiarity, comfort and trust.

Ask yourself: Does my loved one feel calm, respected and secure?

You can support security by:

• Maintaining familiar routines.
• Speaking calmly.
• Explaining what you're doing before helping (Judy Cornish calls this “chattering”).
• Creating familiar environments.

4. Autonomy: Where and about what can they still make choices?

Everyone deserves opportunities to make decisions about their own life whenever possible.

Ask yourself: Am I doing with them — or for them?

You can support autonomy by:

• Offering simple choices.
• Encouraging independence when safe.
• Respecting preferences.
• Asking permission before stepping in.

5. Meaning: Do they still feel useful and valued?

Purpose doesn't disappear because of dementia. Many people living with dementia continue to find meaning in helping, creating, contributing and simply being with others.

Ask yourself: What gives them purpose today?

You can support meaning by:

• Folding clothes together.
• Helping prepare meals.
• Watering plants.
• Reading to grandchildren.
• Participating in family traditions.

6. Growth: Are they still learning and experiencing new things?

Growth doesn't stop with a dementia diagnosis. People continue to discover, adapt, create and experience life in new ways.

Ask yourself: What new experience could bring them enjoyment today?

You can support growth by:

• Trying a new activity.
• Exploring music or art.
• Visiting a new park.
• Learning together.

7. Joy: What brings them happiness today?

Joy can be found in the simplest moments. A favorite song. A warm blanket. Fresh cookies. A grandchild's laugh.

Ask yourself: What makes them smile?

You can support joy by:

• Listening to favorite music.
• Sharing humor.
• Enjoying nature.
• Savoring favorite foods.
• Creating opportunities for laughter.

Every Small Moment Matters

The seven domains remind us that dementia support is about more than meeting physical needs.

It's about helping people living with dementia continue to experience identity, connection, security, autonomy, meaning, growth and joy.

Some days, you'll support one domain more than another, and that's okay.

When caregivers focus on these human needs, they help create moments that preserve dignity, strengthen relationships and support a life that remains rich in meaning.

If you aren’t sure how to support these domains in your unique caregiving situation, reach out to the Family Caregivers Center of Mercy. We are happy to assess and offer ideas, resources and support.