This chapter explores the concept of ‘recovery’ and its applicability to older people with mental health problems and specifically those with dementia. A previous paper noted the complementarity, shared values and convergent evolution of recovery-focused and person-centred approaches in adult and older adult care and the considerable opportunity to learn from one another. This chapter revisits the development, similarities and differences in these values-led approaches and the further developments that have arisen in the last 10 years. We propose that there continues to be a fertile and mutually supportive opportunity to share inspiration and practice. Some readers may be very familiar with this emphasis and the approach we outline and feel we are ‘stating the obvious’ concerning practice that is already established. We wish this were the case, but when we look beyond assent to theory, seeking well-established practice and positive outcomes, we note these philosophies still have a good way to go before they are enshrined as common practice and universally available to those who need them.