Finding stimulating activities for a senior loved one with dementia can be a challenging task. However, it doesn’t mean you should give up. Engaging in activities can help your loved one boost his or her mood and slow the progression of dementia. Here are some activities that are perfect for keeping older adults with dementia engaged.
1. Listening to Music
Listening to music is a great activity for seniors with varying mobility levels. Some medical professionals even use music as a therapy tool for aging adults with dementia and other similar diseases. Look for music that makes your loved one happy and consider playing his or her favorite songs, bands, and genres. Dancing or playing an instrument like a drum or tambourine may make the activity even more stimulating.
Even when families have the best intentions, caring for a senior loved one with dementia can be challenging. Fortunately, Home Care Assistance is here to help. We are a leading provider of dementia home care. Tucson families can take advantage of our flexible and customizable care plans, and our caregivers always stay up to date on the latest developments in senior care.
2. Cooking
While your loved one may not be able to cook independently anymore, there’s no reason the two of you can’t prepare meals together. Invite your loved one over to help you bake a cake or a batch of cookies or cook an entire meal. Cooking meals allows your loved one to practice his or her skills and feel a sense of accomplishment.
3. Watching Movies at Home
If your loved one has old family movies lying around the house, consider watching them together. Make it a family affair by inviting other relatives over, preparing some popcorn, and reminiscing about old times. Seeing videos from the past may stimulate long-term memory.
4. Cleaning
Washing the dishes, sweeping the floor, and vacuuming may bring a great sense of accomplishment to seniors with dementia. Let your loved one help with some basic housekeeping tasks. Monitor for any safety issues, and don’t become agitated if the completed job isn’t perfect.
Older adults with dementia often need help performing housekeeping tasks. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need a break from your caregiving duties, the Tucson respite care experts at Home Care Assistance are here to help. All of our respite care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
5. Walking Somewhere New
Going for a walk around the yard, neighborhood, or a local park is a great activity for older adults. Enjoying some fresh air, exercise, and a little nature is good for a senior’s health. However, switching up the route and offering your loved one a new view may stimulate his or her mind. Consider taking your loved one to a new park, or go somewhere completely new like a local farm, botanical garden, or calm city street.
6. Crafting or Painting
Crafting is a popular option among seniors with dementia, as it keeps the hands and mind busy. Doing crafts can also boost mood. Depending on how advanced your loved one’s dementia is, you may need to choose activities that are easy to follow. Painting is a great option because there isn’t necessarily a right or wrong way to do it. Display your loved one’s artwork so he or she can feel a sense of accomplishment.
7. Spending Time with Animals
While getting your loved one a dog or cat may be out of the question, spending time with an animal can enhance mood and social interaction. Encourage your loved one to visit a shelter or rescue, go to a farm or petting zoo, or visit family members with friendly pets. You could also get your loved one a fish tank, as long as someone is around to feed and tend to the fish.
Dementia is a major health condition that can impact memory, mobility, and independence. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of home care Tucson, AZ, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. Whether your loved one needs minor assistance with daily tasks or extensive 24-hour home care, give us a call at (520) 276-6555 today.