Memory Care Activities That Help Patients Who Are Suffering From Dementia
Patients suffering from Alzheimer's diseases and other forms of dementia often feel as though they have lost purpose in their lives and become discouraged, lonely and depressed. Activities that stimulate the patient and offer a sense of accomplishment can reduce the risk of despair and depression. Memory care programs work by engaging patients with activities that are meaningful, yet are simple enough not that they do not frustrate or overwhelm the patient. The following activities may help improve your loved one's outlook on life and slow the decline of dementia.
Arts and Crafts
Many arts and crafts can keep your loved one entertained and engaged. Painting, quilting, crocheting or coloring allow patients to express themselves and enjoy art. The use of simple patterns or techniques can help prevent frustration.
Music
Many patients suffering from dementia are instantly calmed by music. If your loved one enjoyed playing a musical instrument or singing, encourage them to participate in musical activities. Unbelievably, patients suffering from advanced stage dementia can often recall how to play a musical instrument or the words to songs they sung in the past.
Gardening
Gardening is a great way to add a sense of wonder and purpose to the life of an Alzheimer patient. Planting seeds, tending flower or vegetable gardens and weeding are great activities to get your loved one involved with.
Reading Activities
If the patient loves reading, offer them reading materials that are engaging, relevant and enjoyable. Think of the things your family member enjoyed during life and provide books about that subject. Books should be chosen based on the severity of their dementia. Some patients may still enjoy novels while others may need books with plenty of photographs.
Puzzles and Games
Puzzles and games can provide hours of entertainment to patients. When choosing puzzles for patients, opt scenic puzzles or ones featuring animals. Board games and card games are other activities that many seniors enjoy.
Scrapbooking Activities
Scrapbooking can help patients reminisce and remember family members and events. Gather photographs together, sort them by subject or dates, and help your loved one paste the photos into a scrapbook. Encourage them to talk about and write down memories.
Memory care activities should be simple enough for the patient to complete; however, it is important that the activity does not seem childish. When it comes to these activities, it is important to understand that involvement is more important than completion. Each activity is designed to encourage the patient and bring purpose to their lives.
For further assistance, contact a local memory care provider, such as Gateway Living.
Share
