People are racing for
things to do to lower their risk of developing Alzheimer’s or other forms of
dementia. Even if someone has Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, they
still need to feel engaged in life and have fun. The best way to ensure that is
by learning about activities that will help to engage them regardless of the
level of the disease. Engaging activities can also be an alternative to
medication because they’re not just satisfying, fun, and a boost to
self-esteem, but can reduce anxiety and agitation, distract from things, and
improve quality of life for people with dementia.
One thing is for sure
that being active and engaged is one way to slow the onset of dementia. But,
where is a good place to start when planning these activities? You’ll know your
loved one best, so choose what will work best for them. It’s important to
create activities that won’t pose any threat to your older adult or anyone
else. When planning for an activity- make sure to involve your loved one- do
not point out what they can no longer do and create a circle or community of
friends and family to reassure them that they will always be a vitally
important presence in the family and community. Keeping these two things in
mind will help you create a strong foundation that will help you determine
activities that are engaging for your aging parents.
When it comes to
choosing appropriate activities for dementia patients, take into account their
abilities and skills, time of day, be aware of any physical limitations, center
your focus on enjoyment not achievement, and adjust activities to accommodate
stages of dementia.
Here’s a list of
stimulating activities (these can be very engaging and encouraging) for someone
with dementia:
- Cook
something together
- Play
music that your loved one enjoys the most
- Read
with them or to them
- Watch
a favorite movie, program, or revisit family videos
- Do
some gardening
- Keep
a pet (it can be soothing and calming)
- Take
a stroll in nature
- Draw,
paint, do puzzles, or play games
- Make
a scrapbook
- Arrange
flowers
As a caregiver, you
need to be patient, simplify instructions, offer encouragement and support, set
a daily routine, and encourage independent living, and offer choices that are
appropriate and do not create anxiety or fear.
If you think your
loved one needs assistance, in-home care might be the best option as it allows
your loved one to stay in the comfort of their own home and continue living as
they are used to.
Aroga is one of the best home care, York County
service providers, specializing in the placement of high quality
professional care providers. Caregivers we refer are bonded, insured and
trained in Alzheimer’s and dementia care, post-hospitalization care, healthy
cooking techniques, and more!
