In the light of recent research it is now possible to gain considerable insight into the subjective world of dementia. The uniqueness of each individual's experience, which is related to personality and defence processes, must always be taken into account. Six 'routes to understanding' are discussed, and the array of evidence is used to build up an overall picture of the domain. Comments are made on the psychological needs of people with dementia. Finally, a speculation is offered about the subjective consequences of those needs being met.