Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia in patients. It is a degenerative, progressive and irreversible brain disease that slowly destroys memory and one’s thinking capacity. As the disease progresses, simple tasks and conversations can become difficult and cumbersome; language, executive functions, decision-making and logic are all affected. Although it can develop at any age, the typical onset occurs at 65 years old. Alzheimer’s is currently ranked as the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, affecting over 5 million people nationwide.
One common concern for those suffering from Alzheimer’s is the sense of a loss of one’s self and independence. For patients and families who are struggling with the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer’s, knowing what to expect and having a plan can be an empowering step. This plan may include ideas for activities that can be done with your loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s.
Need help caring for your loved one with Alzheimer’s? Elderlink Home Care, Inc. is here to help.
The following are a few easy, flexible and supportive activities that can comfort and greatly benefit Alzheimer’s patients.
Easy Activity Ideas for Alzheimer’s Patients
1. Read books they enjoy- Reading is important as it stimulates the mind, spirit and imagination. Reading increases brain power, improves comprehension, assists in activating empathy and helps maintain cognitive reserve. It could be helpful for an Alzheimer’s patient to have some of their favorite novels close-at-hand.
2. Encourage enjoyable organizational tasks around the home- Focusing on tasks they are able to do safely can bring a sense of independence and self-accomplishment. It can also help provide someone with Alzheimer’s a sense of control over their life.
3. Cook or bake simple recipes together – Who doesn’t love the smell of chocolate chip cookies baking in the oven? Using the sense of smell can activate positive cognitive recognition, while bringing warmth to the soul. Cooking and baking can stir memories, reduce feelings of stress and anxiety and strengthen emotional connections with others.
4. Interact with simple arts and crafts- Using art is an excellent way to relax, but it is also a fun recreational activity. Art can be used as a form of expression, exploring feelings, communication and managing behavior. The creative process can help improve the physical, mental and emotional well-being of an Alzheimer’s patient.
5. Ask them to untie knots- This is a problem-solving and kinesthetic activity. It stimulates the mind, provides sensory stimulation and helps to foster and improve eye and hand coordination.
6. Listen to familiar music- Music has many benefits including: sparking memory, soothing anxiety and engaging the mind. Engaging the auditory senses helps to activate brain activity. You can also encourage sing-alongs and karaoke to add some fun!
7. Watch family videos- Watching family videos can stir stored memories and bring about positive feelings and emotions. It can help an Alzheimer’s individual feel connected and engaged in life and with those around them.
8. Garden outdoors – There are many emotional benefits in being outdoors and connecting with nature. Gardening is a great interactive activity to keep the mind and body moving- improving core strength and flexibility. Being in nature can also bring a sense of peace and serenity to the spirit.
9. Play with a deck of cards – Playing with cards can go a long way to activate the mind. Whether the cards are used for pairing, sorting, matching, or playing games- remaining engaged and active is good for both mental and emotional stimulation.
Not only do activities that engage the mind, body and soul increase mental activity and release positive endorphins, they help in maintaining interactions and connections with others. It’s physically and emotionally beneficial for an Alzheimer’s patient to continue participating in activities and hobbies they once enjoyed. Activities that stir memories, foster emotional connections with others and encourage self-expression, can lessen anxiety and help an individual with Alzheimer’s feel more engaged in life.
Elderlink Home Care, Inc. has many rewarding years providing quality in home care for Alzheimer’s patients. We can help you assess which activity ideas for Alzheimer’s patients best suit your loved one. For your home care service needs, you may request a free consultation.
There are 3 comments on this post
January 27, 2018
My husband first experienced confusion and loss of memory in March of 2000 while undergoing rehab for alcoholism. Being home seemed to help him until 2006 when he gradually began experiencing Alzheimer’s symptoms. He had four to five hours a day where he wants to get a “greyhound” to “go home.” Also, he thinks I am his sister and believes he has rented a car (he hasn’t driven in five to 10 years). His personal hygiene was in the tank — it was necessary for him to change two to three times a day. Without long-term insurance for his care, it was becoming stressful to care from him. this year our family doctor introduced and started him on Healthherbsclinic Alzheimer’s Disease Herbal Tincture, 6 months into treatment he improved dramatically. At the end of the full treatment course, the disease is totally under control. No case of Alzheimer’s, hallucination, forgetfulness, and other he’s strong again and able to go about daily activities
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