Bill of Rights

Every person diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or
related disorder deserves the following rights:

To be informed of one’s diagnosis

To have appropriate, ongoing medical care

To be productive in work and play for as long as possible

To be treated like an adult, not like a child

To have expressed feelings taken seriously

To be free from psychotropic medications, if possible

To live in a safe, structured, and predictable environment

To enjoy meaningful activities that fill each day

To be outdoors on a regular basis

To have physical contact, including hugging,
caressing, and hand-holding

To be with individuals who know one’s life story,
including cultural and religious traditions

To be cared for by individuals who are well trained
in dementia care

The Best Friend’s Approach to Alzheimer’s Care
by Virginia Bell and David Troxel