People with dementia can live a happier life by being physically and mentally active. This can make them feel happier and more motivated and stop them from withdrawing from their loved ones.
It is important that you remember that activities enjoyed by a person before they were diagnosed with dementia may still be enjoyed. However, it might be necessary to adapt them to their level of abilities.
The activity coordinators plan the activities that are most appropriate for each individual they support. Our activities coordinators work with individuals to maintain their skills and talents and give them the chance to discover new interests and activities.
These are some activities that dementia patients in our care love to do. You could also support them by doing these things:
Activities for the home
Cleaning and cooking are two activities that most people do every day. They give us a sense of accomplishment. You can give your caregiver tasks that are safe for them and appropriate for their cognitive abilities. You might ask them to help with things like washing dishes, watering plants, and setting up the table.
Baking and Cooking
It can be a great way to help someone with dementia bake and cook. This will also increase self-worth and reduce stress, anxiety, or irritability. To ensure they are safe, get them involved in activities like measuring, adding, and mixing.
Arts and crafts
Arts and crafts such as printing, clay modelling, painting, and beading can all promote and sustain cognitive abilities. This activity can also be used to express yourself and count as an exercise for the upper body. It can help with self-esteem if the person has previously enjoyed arts and crafts.
Move, dance and exercise
Dancing can help stimulate the brain and body and also help people to meet other people. You don’t have to stand up to dance, it can also be done from a chair. Encourage people to move by encouraging circular, repetitive moves, or even handing out balloons, ribbons, or balls when appropriate.
Exercise is the same. Indoor skittles, tai-chi, and balloon throwing are all options for those who can walk. For those with limited mobility, armchair exercises such as marching, lifting the arms and legs, and circling can be beneficial.
Getting outdoors
Gardening can help us feel purposeful, increase energy, and socialize with others. A person with dementia might be able to help to plant a raised garden bed or a container for a garden. Encourage the person with dementia to water the plants and enjoy the sights and smells of the garden.
Entertainment for people with dementia
Many cinemas advertise dementia-friendly screenings and shows. The lights are dimmed and not turned off. Volume levels are lower, and visual markers are used. These can improve mood, trigger memories, and even start conversations.
Many museums, zoos, and football teams are committed to dementia-friendly activities to ensure that everyone can enjoy their favorite activities.
Sensory therapy
Positive feelings can be evoked by stimulating one or more senses (sound, sight, smells, taste, touch, or smell).
Outdoor objects such as plants, shells, or flowers, can be interesting to bring in. It is possible to experiment with different scents by trying out teas, herbs, or essential oils. You can also experiment with taste by trying old-fashioned desserts and dishes from other countries.
Music therapy
Music can help people express themselves and make connections. To get an idea of the type of music that someone likes, make a playlist with songs and genres they have listened to in the past. Engaging with tambourines, live music or other musical instruments can increase engagement.
Reminiscence Sessions
Encouragement to share memories can help someone socialise, strengthen relationships with family and friends, improve their mood, and encourage them to have fun.
Find positive themes and photos to use as a theme. You should make the most of this opportunity to stimulate all five senses. Try reminiscing about the summer, winter, the seaside, and pop culture from their youth.
This can be done one-on-one or in a group setting.
Bingo
Bingo can help you improve your concentration, coordination, and short-term memory. It’s also a great entertainment source. The game can be adapted by asking players to identify household objects, colours, and animals as well as numbers and letters.
Serene Care offers dementia support
Serene care offers a variety of dementia services in our care homes to ensure that people feel safe and secure while still maintaining their identity.
To find out more about our care homes, you can make an enquiry online or call each home to speak to our helpful team.
