Table 1 A conceptual framework for measuring well-being in dementia

Emotional Well-Being

• Positive States (n = 7)^a

Positive affect (e.g. pleasure, enjoyment, contentment); positive experience and associated emotion (e.g. humour) and ‘affect balance’

Psychological Well-Being

• Going Beyond (n = 7)^a

Personal strengths (e.g. hope) showing aspects of personal growth, meaning-making or spirituality i.e. a sense of transcending the challenges of dementia.

• Agency and Purpose (n = 13)^a

‘Keeping Going’ and remaining’ Active’. Self-determination, autonomy, goals and achievement; ‘resilience’ (defined as remaining strong in the face of dementia or ‘resisting dementia’)’, through continued engagement with meaningful activity.

• Positive Sense of Self (n = 13)^a

Positive attitudes toward the self as well as perceived continuation of self-hood, including self-efficacy, self-esteem, sense of identity and dignity.

Social Well-Being

• Connection and Belonging (n = 6)^a

Experiences of belonging (e.g. close relationships) love, support, appreciation, connection (e.g. meaningful social networks), ‘resilience’ (remaining strong / resisting dementia) through continued social participation, engagement in communities and citizenship.

Life Satisfaction

• Valuing Life (n = 2)^a

Reflects a general sense of ‘feeling well’ and satisfaction with life as it is e.g. ‘Are you satisfied with your life?’ [53]