5 Things People Living Without Brain Changes Can Change

In a world where we often rush past one another, it’s easy to overlook the quiet wisdom and beauty in those living with brain changes. But for those of us not experiencing these changes, we have a unique opportunity — and responsibility — to shift our perspectives and actions. While individuals living with brain changes may not have the freedom to alter how they respond to the world, we do. And that freedom can be a powerful force for compassion, inclusion, and connection.

Here are five heartfelt ways we can begin to change:

1. Open Your Heart and Mind

The first step is simple, yet profound: see the person, not the diagnosis. Individuals living with brain changes have so much to teach us — about resilience, presence, and the value of every moment. When we choose to look beyond the label and truly see the individual, we open ourselves to a deeper understanding of humanity. Let curiosity and empathy guide your interactions, and you’ll find that every person has a story worth hearing.

2. Focus on Abilities, Not Limitations

It’s easy to fall into the trap of focusing on what someone can’t do. But what if we flipped that perspective? What if we celebrated what they can do? Creativity and flexibility are key. Build partnerships instead of taking over. As one wise person once said, “The more you do for me, the more you take away from me.” Empowerment begins when we support others in doing what they can, in their own way and time.

3. Create Inclusive Spaces

Isolation is one of the most painful experiences for individuals living with brain changes — and it’s more harmful than many realize. It’s been compared to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. But inclusion doesn’t require grand gestures. It starts with everyday conversations, shared laughter, and the simple act of making someone feel seen and heard. Remember: brain changes aren’t contagious, but kindness is.

4. Make Life Purposeful

Everyone deserves a life filled with meaning. As people without brain changes, we can help create those moments of purpose. Whether it’s through a shared activity, a familiar song, or a quiet moment of connection, we can help individuals living with brain changes feel valued and engaged. Look for the “sweet spot” — where joy and ability meet — and nurture it.

5. Embrace the Journey of Learning

Each day is a gift — a chance to grow, listen, and become better care partners and friends. Keep your heart open to the lessons individuals with brain changes offer. You may be surprised by the beauty and healing that unfolds — not just for them, but for you as well. This journey isn’t just about helping others; it’s about becoming more human ourselves.

Conclusion

Living without brain changes gives us a powerful gift: the ability to choose how we respond. Let’s use that gift to build bridges, not walls. Let’s choose empathy over assumption, inclusion over isolation, and love over fear. In doing so, we not only uplift others — we allow ourselves to be transformed.

Janie brings hands-on experience in providing quality, compassionate nursing care in multiple environments. A licensed practical nurse, Janie is deeply passionate about excellence in person-centered care with a priority focus on the physical, emotional, and spiritual advocacy for people with dementia. Janie was a care partner in her own mother’s journey through dementia, and as a young wife, Janie cared for her husband who suffered cognitive decline due to a brain tumor. These experiences add up to her ability to support from several perspectives. Her certifications include Dementia Practitioner, Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer, Medication Administration Trainer and Certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional. Through ForgeWorks, Janie offers CDP training to professionals and families serving loved ones living with dementia.