**Background:** The COVID-19 pandemic and associated public health measures have disproportionately affected older adults, particularly those living with dementia. In Finland, the majority of COVID-19 deaths (around 86%) occurred in people over 69 years old. People with dementia are especially vulnerable due to cognitive decline and reliance on social support and services. This study aimed to investigate how the pandemic and related restrictions impacted the well-being and rights of people living with dementia in Finland, focusing on restrictions on mobility and meeting others.
**Methods:** A web-based survey was conducted in spring 2021 in collaboration with the Alzheimer Society of Finland. The survey included 13 items covering background variables, well-being, restrictions on freedom, access to services, information on pandemic regulations, and problems with authorities. Both multiple-choice and open-ended questions were used. Inclusion criteria were personal experience of dementia or being a close family member, and ability to answer independently or with assistance. The survey was open from 7 to 31 May 2021 and distributed via the Alzheimer Society of Finland's networks and social media. A total of 199 responses were received: 31 from people with dementia (PwD) and 168 from family members (FM). The average age of PwD respondents was 71.5 years (median 70.4, range 46–89); 55% were male and 45% female. Among FM respondents, average age was 60.3 years (median 61, range 22–84); 44% were spouses, 42% children, and 14% other family members. Living arrangements of the people with dementia reported on: about one-fifth lived alone at home, just under half lived at home with a spouse or other family member, about one-quarter in service housing, and about one-tenth in other housing. Data were analyzed descriptively, with frequencies reported for multiple-choice questions and illustrative quotes from open-ended responses.
**Key Results:**
- **Restrictions on freedom:** Over a third of respondents (n=68, 34%) reported that the right to meet people was restricted for people with dementia. For those living at home, 43% reported restricted meetings; for those in care homes, 86% reported such restrictions. Almost half (n=88, 44%) experienced restricted freedom of movement: 44% for those at home and 86% for those in care homes. Half (n=100, 50%) reported other restrictions, such as termination of daytime activities and hobbies.
- **Information adequacy:** Roughly half (n=95, 48%) felt there was sufficient information about what was allowed/forbidden. However, over two-thirds felt there was insufficient information on which restrictions were legally based versus recommended, and on running daily errands and keeping in contact with family.
- **Well-being:** 33% assessed the well-being of people with dementia as poor or very poor, 47% as moderate, and 20% as good or very good. Only one respondent reported no deterioration. Among those reporting deterioration, 21% said it decreased slightly (1–3 on a 0–10 scale), 37% somewhat (4–6), and 41% a lot (7–10). Four-fifths (n=171, 86%) experienced a decrease in visits from family members; an equal number (n=160, 80%) noted declines in other social relationships; about half reported increased loneliness. Two-thirds reported declines in mental well-being (64%, n=128) and physical capacity (62%, n=124). One-fifth experienced greater difficulty or delays in accessing social and health services.
- **Access to services:** One-fifth (n=38, 19%) identified problems accessing social services and adequate information. Only one-tenth (n=26, 13%) identified issues with accessing treatment and care, incorrect entries, malpractice, disrespectful treatment, or other issues. Half (n=100, 50%) reported no such issues. Relatively few difficulties with authorities were reported (≤25% for any category).
- **Recovery measures:** 57% (n=114) said face-to-face activities would be most helpful, 47% (n=94) support from associations/organizations, 30% (n=59) recommencement of municipal activities, and only 12% (n=24) remote or 13% (n=25) telephone activities.
**Clinical Implications:** The findings underscore that pandemic restrictions—particularly on mobility, social contact, and meaningful activities—had substantial negative effects on the cognitive, physical, and psychosocial well-being of people living with dementia. The study highlights the need for legislation that carefully balances infection control with the fundamental rights and well-being of vulnerable populations. It also points to the importance of providing clear, accessible information about restrictions and ensuring that family carers are guided to avoid excessive restrictions. The results support the development of alternative measures that allow people with dementia to maintain contact with family and engage in meaningful activities, even during public health emergencies.