Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. Although its progression cannot be halted, evidence suggests that stimulating activities for Alzheimer patients can help them stay connected to those around them as well as their own identities.
Active involvement in an activity can create positive emotions in the patient, such as fond memories, closeness to others, and a sense of purpose. Dementia often produces feelings of isolation or disconnectedness in those who suffer from it, by participating in a simple game, song, or even chore they can experience joy and a feeling of accomplishment.
Every patient is an individual with his or her own unique interests and skills which caregivers need to determine in order to select suitable activities for the person to participate in. The goal is to keep them occupied and make it fun, so they don't feel sad or bored. Some people have a particular time of day during which they respond most favorably, and they may prefer certain activities, these factors can be used to make a schedule for them.
Any hobbies the patient used to enjoy before they developed dementia may once again bring joy to him or her if reintroduced in a basic form. The familiar actions can spark memories in the patient, reminding him or her of their love for this activity. Getting outdoors for some exercise can benefit most patients, whether its for a nature walk, or therapeutic activity such a swimming, yoga, or Tai Chi. The boost in endorphins will naturally lift one's spirit.
Games can help patients remember the names of objects and keep thinking skills sharp. Choosing items of interest to the person and having him or her name them, or sorting them by category can be effective for this purpose. Visiting a store and matching items to those on coupons, cutting photos into puzzles and having the patient assemble them, and even a basic game of catch with a large, soft ball can all boost cognitive and motor skills.
The diminished abilities associated with Alzheimer's can result in depression, which is why it is important to make the patient feel needed and helpful. This can be accomplished by involving him or her in daily tasks such as helping to prepare a meal, cleaning up the kitchen, or folding laundry. Another approach is to have them help out with a community project such as a toy or canned good drive for the less fortunate.
Reminiscing about the past can also be pleasurable for patients and helps them stay connected to the people, places, and events which have shaped their lives. This can be accomplished by conversation, looking through photo albums or memorabilia the person has saved, or by keeping a book or written stories of their life and reading it with them. Music is also a powerful memory trigger which can be enjoyed by singing along, listening to favorite songs, and even dancing.
The presence of animals can also affect patients positively. Cats and dogs give affection, and appreciate the attention they receive. Patients may also enjoy watching colorful creatures such as caged or wild birds, or fish swimming in a tank. Stimulating their senses can be very soothing too. This can include a pampering treatment such as a shave, manicure or pedicure, or massage with lotion.
Active involvement in an activity can create positive emotions in the patient, such as fond memories, closeness to others, and a sense of purpose. Dementia often produces feelings of isolation or disconnectedness in those who suffer from it, by participating in a simple game, song, or even chore they can experience joy and a feeling of accomplishment.
Every patient is an individual with his or her own unique interests and skills which caregivers need to determine in order to select suitable activities for the person to participate in. The goal is to keep them occupied and make it fun, so they don't feel sad or bored. Some people have a particular time of day during which they respond most favorably, and they may prefer certain activities, these factors can be used to make a schedule for them.
Any hobbies the patient used to enjoy before they developed dementia may once again bring joy to him or her if reintroduced in a basic form. The familiar actions can spark memories in the patient, reminding him or her of their love for this activity. Getting outdoors for some exercise can benefit most patients, whether its for a nature walk, or therapeutic activity such a swimming, yoga, or Tai Chi. The boost in endorphins will naturally lift one's spirit.
Games can help patients remember the names of objects and keep thinking skills sharp. Choosing items of interest to the person and having him or her name them, or sorting them by category can be effective for this purpose. Visiting a store and matching items to those on coupons, cutting photos into puzzles and having the patient assemble them, and even a basic game of catch with a large, soft ball can all boost cognitive and motor skills.
The diminished abilities associated with Alzheimer's can result in depression, which is why it is important to make the patient feel needed and helpful. This can be accomplished by involving him or her in daily tasks such as helping to prepare a meal, cleaning up the kitchen, or folding laundry. Another approach is to have them help out with a community project such as a toy or canned good drive for the less fortunate.
Reminiscing about the past can also be pleasurable for patients and helps them stay connected to the people, places, and events which have shaped their lives. This can be accomplished by conversation, looking through photo albums or memorabilia the person has saved, or by keeping a book or written stories of their life and reading it with them. Music is also a powerful memory trigger which can be enjoyed by singing along, listening to favorite songs, and even dancing.
The presence of animals can also affect patients positively. Cats and dogs give affection, and appreciate the attention they receive. Patients may also enjoy watching colorful creatures such as caged or wild birds, or fish swimming in a tank. Stimulating their senses can be very soothing too. This can include a pampering treatment such as a shave, manicure or pedicure, or massage with lotion.
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