Finding activities that your loved one with Alzheimer's can still enjoy and participate in is so important to their overall well being. Most will respond positively to things that they had a personal interest in and enjoyed doing before the diagnosis. Set up a planner and create a list of activities that they once were interest in or plan things that may remind them of their previous daily tasks.
By keeping your loved one engaged here are some of the improved benefits:
Improved sleep and less night time wandering
A decline in behaviors that are repetitive
Less nervous and anxiety
An improvement in restlessness and and irritability
Less agitation and argumentative interaction
Overall improvement in happiness
Promotes improvement in memory
Improves general health, flexibility, strength and reduces joint pain
Better interaction
Mental stimulation may slow down the progression of the disease
Social activities help decrease isolation and depression
Here are some things to consider when planning the activities:
Music -for someone who sang, played an instrument, or danced, music will have a very positive stimulation. Engage in a sing a long of favorite songs. Offer and encourage the playing of an instrument or have them put on a record. Take their hand and sway to the music. You will be amazed at the response music brings to someone with dementia and Alzheimer's.
Mr. Fix It -For the person who was always tinkering with something, give them an object to take apart and put together. An old toaster, toy car, or just nuts and bolts.
Accountant -For those whose career was spent in banking or a money related industry, set up a work station. The station might include a calculator, paper and pencil, an old check book or register, stapler, paper clips, or rolling coins.
At Home Wife -For the hard working many who stayed and home and managed the household you can engage in tasks like setting the table, folding laundry, cutting coupons, dusting furniture, matching and rolling socks, making a simple dessert, water plants, or sweep the floor.
Depending on physical limitations, exercise is a must! Take a walk, work in the garden, throw a beach ball, dance, or simple exercise like lifting small bottles of water repeatedly are great for the mind and body.
Other Activities:
Arts and crafts
Puzzles
Petting or holding a dog or cat
Looking through photo albums
Organize recipes
Drawing or coloring
Listen to music
Play a game
Knit/Crochet
Outings and car rides
Adult daycare can provide group activities
Spiritual interaction, church, prayer and meditation
Physical and mental activities for persons with dementia and Alzheimer's will almost always be a positive approach for both you and your loved one and this can mean a longer and happier life.
Where do you turn when a love one needs more than you can manage on your own? What do you do when some of the care alternatives seem like a complication rather than a solution? Consult Atlanta's most trusted source for quality Home Care since 1994, Easy Living Services. Flexible care plans designed to guarantee safety, comfort, and personal care and attention. Call us at 770-442-8664.