Dementia and Alzheimer’s have been associated with a poor quality of life for a long time. We now understand this is untrue and should not be the case because people living with these conditions can live purposeful, interactive, and interesting lives. While the activities they do will change as their condition progresses, that does not mean that there are no activities for them to enjoy.
Watching Old Movies
Remembering and reminiscing about the past is incredibly helpful for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Doing both helps strengthen or activate existing connections in the brain. Watching an old movie is also very relaxing for people with dementia. It can also reduce stress while also helping them remember what they liked about particular movies in the past.
You can find old movies on streaming services, TV, cable, and DVD, although those are becoming rarer by the day.
Board Games
Board games like chess are engaging, challenging, and enjoyable for people of all ages. Additionally, some games might spark memories from the past, which benefits seniors’ mental health.
The complexity of the board game will depend on the individual, but there are numerous options to choose from so every senior can find a game they will enjoy. Also, many of these games are very easy to set up and learn, so you can get many more people involved.
Exercise
Many people living with dementia are physically healthy, and therefore, their cognitive condition should not stop them from exercising. Some research even suggests that moderate exercise can increase brain size in seniors.
Seniors might need some help when exercising, and it is also a good idea to talk to a doctor or other medical professional to get help in choosing safe and beneficial exercises.
Music Therapy
This type of therapy uses music to stimulate the brain, with studies suggesting that it is much easier for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia to remember music lyrics than a new spoken language. Music can also be a teaching tool, spark old memories, and improve personal well-being.
It doesn’t matter what type of music you play as long as it brings a smile to their faces or reminds them of the past.
Gardening
Gardening is therapeutic for everyone, not just people with Dementia and Alzheimer’s. It can also stimulate the brain, reduce stress, and be a social activity. Gardening gives seniors a goal to work toward, which can provide the structure they need in their lives.
Coloring Books
Adult coloring books have become very popular in many senior and assisted living facilities in recent years. Coloring is very calming, and the creativity it requires activates the brain in different ways.
Carers can combine coloring with music therapy to help seniors relax and stay engaged.
An Important Consideration When Choosing an Assisted Living Facility
Assisted living facilities that provide memory care services are one of the most common care options for seniors with Alzheimer’s and Dementia. If you are a loved one living with Alzheimer’s are considering moving to an assisted living facility, it is important to check the different activities the facility has. A combination of different activities has significant benefits for mental health and for helping people have rich and meaningful days.
Different activities help seniors keep the brain stimulated and occupied while providing numerous other benefits. They also remind seniors living with dementia and Alzheimer’s of a happier time, which can be useful in improving their quality of life.
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