It can be somewhat challenging to find daily activities to keep older people with dementia engaged with others and the world around them. If you are caring for an elderly relative with dementia in their own home, this is when home care service providers who specialise in dementia care can help you. Below we explore some top tips for choosing activities for your loved ones living with dementia.
Tap into those memories
A great way to connect with your loved one who has dementia, and in a way in which they can reconnect with the world, is through dance and listening to music from the past. Doing so is not only good fun and excellent for mental and physical health, but it will tap into those memories that can then lead to conversation.
Don’t over do it
You may be tempted to do lots of activities on the same day, but the general rule is to keep things simple and not overdo it. Too many set activities, and particularly those that are noisy or involve crowds, can be overstimulating and cause distress.
Make it relevant
When choosing activities, it is always best to make sure that they are relevant to the person’s likes or past experiences. So, for example, if your loved one was a gardener, then perhaps you could grow plants or tend to the garden together. If your loved one had a passion for art, get those paints out.
Embrace technology
You may think that an older person with dementia should shy away from an iPad or smartphone, but the fact is that this type of technology can be truly beneficial. These devices can be used for playing online games, watching old TV shows, doing puzzles and connecting with the wider family via Skype or FaceTime.
Jigsaws and board games
When caring for a loved one living with dementia, it is important to exercise the mind. Simple board games, jigsaws and tabletop games are all good options, plus they also encourage social interaction.
We are able to offer a range of dementia home care services to help both your loved one and your family. If you would like any further information about our home care services for your elderly loved one who has dementia, please do browse our website and get in touch with us today.
