Alzheimer’s, a common type of Dementia, causes many problems with memory, thinking, and behavior that can develop slowly and will progressively get worse over time. It is important for those with this disease to stay active and participate in types of activities that may stir up memories and lessen the anxiety and agitation they may be experiencing.
Here are some great ideas on how to create a significant experience for your loved one with Alzheimer’s:
1. Consider Their Interests
When coming up with activities for your loved one, try involving some interests they had before the onset of Alzheimer’s. For example, if your loved one has a passion for gardening, take them outside for some stimulating gardening activities. Or take them to the local arboretum or a botanical garden if they are not physically or cognitively capable of working in their own yard. There are plenty of art projects that can be done and coloring books are easy for seniors to use. Listening to music and watching family videos or older movies might make your loved one feel more comfortable. Music can help a person with Alzheimer’s transition more smoothly through their day. Calming or slower types of tunes can help in relaxation if your loved one has anxiety or when it is getting closer to bedtime. Music can also assist in the recollection of events, people, and places from their past.
2. Re-establish Old Routines
Make your loved one feel needed and useful by bringing back some of the activities they routinely did in the past. Giving your loved one small tasks to complete can make them feel accomplished. Cooking from an old family recipe, cleaning, or folding laundry are great examples of small tasks that can be easily accomplished. Maybe their physical capabilities are not what they used to be, but they can assist you in your daily routine as well. Even if they are able to help just a little, it can be an exciting activity for you both to enjoy together.
3. Encourage Social Interactions
Take your loved out around town for some social interaction. It is not beneficial for seniors with Alzheimer’s to stay home all the time. They need to exercise their brain just as much as you do. By taking them to events, social gatherings, or even the grocery store, it creates an atmosphere to fill the need of social connectedness. Bringing them to a restaurant or museum can be an exciting adventure. Just remember that those with Alzheimer’s tend to feel anxiety when in large crowds, so take your loved one to a place you know will not be busy or over-crowded. Unfortunately, outbursts may occur. Do not worry about how others may be reacting. Taking your loved one with you around town is more important.
4. Work Up a Sweat
Exercising provides plenty of benefits to all seniors, regardless of whether or not they have Alzheimer’s. However, engaging in physical exercise can reduce wandering in those that do live with Alzheimer’s. Taking daily walks with your loved one or using a stationary bicycle can relieve stress and reduce agitation they may be experiencing. By thinking of activities that you both are interested in, exercising can become a fun and enjoyable practice. Build your loved one’s exercise regimen slowly. Maybe begin with some low key chair movements or a short walk, then keep building up to some tennis, swimming, or dancing. It can be difficult to convince your loved one to participate in exercising, so make it fun and don’t give up.
5. Create a Sensory Garden
Engage your loved one’s senses by creating a sensory garden. Choose plants with different textures, colors, and scents. Incorporate elements like wind chimes, bird feeders, or water features to add sound and movement. Gardening can be very therapeutic, and the variety of sensory experiences can stimulate memories and encourage interaction.
6. Participate in Pet Therapy
Interacting with animals can bring joy and comfort to seniors with Alzheimer’s. Pet therapy, involving visits from trained therapy animals, can help reduce stress and improve mood. If a trained therapy animal is not available, visiting a local petting zoo or spending time with a family pet can have similar benefits. Even simple activities like watching birds at a bird feeder or fish in an aquarium can be soothing and engaging for your loved one.
7. Create a Memory Box
A memory box filled with items that hold personal significance can be a wonderful way for seniors with Alzheimer’s to connect with their past. Gather photos, mementos, and other items that relate to significant events, people, or places from their life. Going through the memory box together can evoke pleasant memories and spark conversations. It’s also a great way to involve family members in creating a personalized and meaningful activity.
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