Senior Health | February 15, 2022
Help Seniors with Dementia Stay Engaged | In the early stages of dementia, many seniors show less interest in what were once their favorite activities, and that can be hard on family and loved ones who want to help them. Routine activity, as long as it is carefully planned, can enrich the lives of those affected by dementia and support them in many ways by helping them stay focused and not wander; easing agitation; maintaining proper blood pressure, blood flow, blood sugar, and weight; keeping their minds sharp; potentially slowing down the decline of dementia; warding off depression; and building confidence as they begin to lose some of their abilities. Activities for people with dementia do not have to be strenuous to be beneficial, and senior care experts offer numerous recommendations when planning activities.
Routine activity, as long as it is carefully planned, can enrich the lives of those affected by dementia and support them in many ways by helping them stay focused and not wander; easing agitation; maintaining proper blood pressure, blood flow, blood sugar, and weight; keeping their minds sharp; potentially slowing down the decline of dementia; warding off depression; and building confidence as they begin to lose some of their abilities. Because of these benefits, it is important to provide ongoing opportunities for these seniors to remain engaged.
Finally, remember to keep it fun. Make sure the activities are in line with the person’s interests and adjust them to his or her current ability level to avoid frustration. Plan outdoor activities whenever possible, and be sure to vary activities to include mental and physical stimulation, as well as those that stimulate sight, smell, hearing, and touch. It is also important to maintain a sense of structure even though the activities may be varied. Following these guidelines can offer a stimulating, enjoyable holiday for the person affected by dementia and his or her loved ones.
Comfort Keepers can help. Our caregivers can provide wellness support, remind clients to take medication, provide transportation to scheduled appointments, and support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. As part of an individualized care plan, caregivers can let a senior’s care team know if there are changes in behavior or physical characteristics. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.
To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your the Comfort Keepers Comfort Keepers® Edmonton office today.
References
Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Enhancing daily life: activities. Retrieved from http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-activities.asp
Aveyard-Barry, Michelle. (n.d.). Valentine Crafts for Alzheimer’s Patients. In eHow. Retrieved from http://www.ehow.com/list_6152788_valentine-crafts-alzheimer_s-patients.html
Bragg, Susan. (2010, January 31). Valentine’s Day Activities for Those Suffering from Dementia. In Zimbia Alzheimer’s Reading Room. Retrieved from http://www.zimbio.com/Alzheimer’s+Reading+Room/articles/wWDxUrMqP2u/Valentine+Day+Activities+Those+Suffering+Dementia
Richmond, Mary. (n.d.). Activities for Alzheimer’s Patients. In eHow. Retrieved from http://www.ehow.com/way_5349914_activities-alzheimers-patients.html
Salazar, Gina, AD. (n.d.). Alzheimer’s/Dementia Activities: Fun stuff to do with Alzheimers/Dementia Residents. In The Activity Director’s Office. Retrieved January 9, 2014 from http://www.theactivitydirectorsoffice.com/Gina_ActivityIdeasThatWork_Alzheimers.html.
Shadowbox Press Blog (2013, January 16). 10 Valentine’s Day Activities for Alzheimer’s Patients. Retrieved from http://www.shadowboxpress.wordpress.com/2013/01/16/10-valentines-day-activities-for-alzheimers-patients-3/
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