If your loved ones have dementia, you may notice that they struggle to remember things frequently. You may even notice that basic tasks, like bathing, become difficult for them too. Having activities for your dementia-ridden loved ones can benefit their overall quality of life. Having activities will help with your loved one’s sense of achievement and purpose. It will also help to regulate their mood and reduce their stress levels, especially when the disease progresses. It may reduce anxiety, depression, agitation, and anger in your loved ones. It may also even reduce the possibility of challenging behaviors too. Here are some activities seniors with dementia can take part in so that they can continue to be engaged in life despite their illness.
Fold Towels
You may want to encourage your loved ones to help you fold laundry items. The goal is to keep them happy and occupied. Since hand towels are small and easy to fold, it is a good idea to use them. The important thing is that they feel good about the activity, regardless of how well the towels are folded. Not only will it help to pass their time, but it will also help them to retain their motor skills. More importantly, it will help them to feel valued in the family.
Create A Memory Box
You can use a memory box to reconnect your loved ones with their past profession and hobbies. Fill a medium-size box with items they would have used at their previous job, such as copies of photos, pens, briefcases, and items from their office. A person who enjoyed cooking or baking may enjoy measuring spoons, a whisk, a spatula, and other items.
Play With A Puzzle Cube
You may want to encourage your loved ones to play with a puzzle cube that is brightly colored. This will not only provide lots of fun to your loved ones but can also help to build up their cognitive skills, delaying cognitive decline.
Play With Larger Print Playing Cards
You may want to encourage your loved ones to play with larger print playing cards. Not only will it help to pass your loved one’s time, but it will also ensure that they can feel a sense of achievement playing the cards. Be assured that the large letters and numbers will allow your loved ones to play with the cards easily. You may want to pay attention to their enjoyment level. Depending on the stage of their disease, their play may progressively get simpler. Do note that if they seem frustrated or overwhelmed, you may want to make the game easier for them.
Play With Pattern Boards And Blocks
You may want to encourage your loved ones to play with pattern boards and blocks. This will also help them to feel accomplished.
With these activities, your loved ones can enjoy a higher quality of life, even when the disease progresses. However, there may be times when it becomes very challenging for you to take care of your loved ones. We at TerraBella Southport would be more than happy to help you ensure your loved one’s quality of life is maximized. Check us out today!
