Moments of Clarity in Dementia: Why They Happen and How to Respond

By Kirsty Law Gibbons, Dementia Specialist

As a dementia specialist, I’ve supported many families and carers through the ups and downs of dementia care. One of the most remarkable experiences is witnessing a “moment of clarity”—a brief period when a loved one seems more present and connected than usual. Understanding these moments can help you respond with confidence and compassion, and it’s reassuring to know that research continues to shed light on why they happen.

What Are Moments of Clarity?

A moment of clarity is a temporary period where someone with dementia becomes noticeably more lucid, aware, or able to communicate more clearly than is typical for them. During these times, a person who may have seemed confused or withdrawn might recognise loved ones, recall memories, or express thoughts more easily. These episodes can be unpredictable but are often deeply meaningful for carers and families.

Why Do Moments of Clarity Happen?

Whilst every person’s experience with dementia is unique, and the condition itself is complex, research suggests several possible reasons for these moments:

Brain Chemistry Fluctuations: Changes in brain chemistry or neural activity can sometimes allow for a temporary improvement in memory or awareness (Cipriani et al., 2015).

Emotional or Sensory Triggers: Familiar music, scents, or visits from loved ones can spark recognition and a sense of connection (University of Stirling, Dementia Services Development Centre).

Routine and Rest: People with dementia may experience greater clarity after restful periods or during calm parts of the day.

Gentle Stimulation: Soothing experiences—such as calming sounds or gentle touch—can sometimes help a person feel more present and engaged (University of Tasmania, Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre).

Recent work from the University of Stirling highlights the importance of environment and sensory cues in supporting moments of engagement and lucidity. Similarly, the University of Tasmania’s research emphasises the value of person-centred care and meaningful activity in promoting wellbeing for people with dementia.

The Science Behind Moments of Clarity

It’s reassuring to know that these moments aren’t just anecdotal. A well-known paper, “The reality of ‘sunshine moments’ in dementia care: Clinical and neuroscientific perspectives” (Cipriani et al., 2015), explores these moments—referred to as “sunshine moments” in the research—in depth. The authors point out that carers and clinicians alike recognise these lucid episodes, which may be triggered by familiar surroundings, emotional connections, or sensory cues like music and scent. Neuroscientifically, it’s thought that temporary changes in brain chemistry or neural activity might allow someone to experience a brief return of clarity.

Recent studies show that these moments—now often called “paradoxical lucidity”—are not rare. For example, a 2020 study from the National Institute on Ageing found that most carers of people with advanced dementia have witnessed unexpected episodes of lucidity. These episodes can be emotionally powerful and are now being taken seriously by researchers and clinicians. Newer research (2023, Gilmore-Bykovskyi et al.) describes different types of lucid episodes, noting that they often occur in people with severe-stage dementia and can be triggered by emotional or sensory cues. A 2024 review in Age and Ageing highlights that these lucid periods are commonly described as brief episodes of “heightened mental clarity and alertness,” and that families and carers play a crucial role in witnessing and supporting these moments.

All of this reinforces what carers have known all along: moments of clarity are real, meaningful, and deserve to be valued and understood.

Practical Tips for Carers

Keep a Journal: Note when moments of clarity occur and what might have triggered them. Over time, you may notice patterns that help you create more opportunities for connection.

Create a Calming Environment: Soft lighting, familiar music, and a peaceful atmosphere can sometimes help your loved one feel more comfortable and engaged.

Use Simple, Open-Ended Questions: This encourages communication without putting pressure on your loved one.

Take Care of Yourself: These moments can be emotional. Give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up and seek support if needed.

What Should You Do During a Moment of Clarity?

Be Present: Set aside distractions and focus on the connection. Make eye contact, hold their hand, and enjoy the time together.

Listen and Engage: If your loved one starts talking or sharing memories, encourage them gently. Ask open-ended questions, but don’t push if they struggle to respond.

Share Joy: Laugh together, reminisce, or look at photos. These moments can bring comfort and happiness to both of you.

Stay Calm and Reassuring: Sometimes, moments of clarity can be emotional or even upsetting if the person becomes aware of their situation. Offer reassurance, kindness, and let them know they are safe and loved.

After the Moment Passes

It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions—joy, hope, sadness—when a moment of clarity fades. These experiences are not a sign that dementia is reversing, but rather a reminder of your loved one’s enduring spirit. Be gentle with yourself and with them as you move forward.

A Note of Caution: Don’t Chase Clarity at All Costs

It’s important to remember that moments of clarity are unpredictable and, sadly, cannot be summoned at will. Trying too hard or constantly seeking these moments can become exhausting and emotionally draining for carers. It may even put pressure on your loved one and strain your relationship during precious time together.

Dementia is, by its nature, unpredictable. Cherishing moments of clarity when they arise is wonderful, but it’s just as vital to accept and value your loved one as they are in the present. Focus on comfort, connection, and kindness—these are the things that truly matter, regardless of how lucid your loved one may seem on any given day.

A Note for Visitors: The True Value of Your Presence

If you are visiting someone living with dementia, it’s natural to wonder if you’re doing or saying the “right” things—especially when communication is difficult or moments of clarity are rare. The truth is, the most important thing to remember is not to focus on finding the perfect words or creating a remarkable breakthrough. Instead, simply being present is powerful.

If your loved one feels even a little more at ease, more content, or calmer when you leave than when you arrived, you have done something truly valuable. Your presence, kindness, and gentle company can make all the difference, even if it’s not always obvious in the moment.

It’s not about achieving a moment of clarity or sparking a big change—it’s about offering comfort, reassurance, and a sense of safety. That, in itself, is a wonderful gift.

So, if you leave their side and sense they are a bit more settled, or you shared a smile or a moment of peace together, know that you’ve done a good job. That’s what matters most.

Further Support

If you’d like more information or support, organisations such as Alzheimer’s Society and Dementia UK offer resources, helplines, and advice for carers.

References

Cipriani, G., Dolciotti, C., Picchi, L., & Bonuccelli, U. (2015). “Reality of ‘sunshine moments’ in dementia care: Clinical and neuroscientific perspectives.” Aging Clinical and Experimental Research.

National Institute on Ageing (2020). “Study of caregivers finds brief bouts of lucidity are common among people with dementia.” NIA News

Gilmore-Bykovskyi, A. L., et al. (2023). “Typology of lucid episodes in dementia.” Alzheimer’s & Dementia. Read here

Age and Ageing (2024). “Paradoxical lucidity in advanced dementia.” Read here

University of Stirling, Dementia Services Development Centre. Website

University of Tasmania, Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre. Website

About the Author

Kirsty Law Gibbons is a dementia specialist who is passionate about supporting carers and families, and brings years of experience in providing practical, compassionate advice for those living with dementia.