The progressive form of dementia known as Alzheimer's disease affects cognitive processes in such a way that those suffering from it can lose touch those around them and even themselves. Sadly, these effects cannot be reversed, but there is evidence that various stimulating activities for Alzheimer patients can help them continue to feel connected to their identity and those close to them.
When patients are encouraged to take part in various activities, it can help stir up pleasant memories, build closeness with others, and give them a feeling of belonging and usefulness. This approach counteracts the sense of isolation which can result from dementia, and helps bring happiness and the ability to take pride in one's accomplishments back into the person's life.
Suitable activities are determined by the patient's particular interests and skills. Tasks should be kept simple, safe, and free of correction, since the primary aim is to keep the person engaged and happy. There may be certain time of day during which the patient may respond best, and they will sometimes develop favorite things to do, in which case it's a good idea to devise a schedule based on this.
If the person had a hobby which he or she enjoyed in the past, it can be reintroduced in a simpler form. Performing the familiar action can help them recall the satisfaction associated with it. Exercise and time outdoors can also be therapeutic. It need not be strenuous to boost endorphins and give one a sense of well-being, just a walk, some yoga or Tai Chi moves, or swimming work well.
Games are a fun way to help patients remember the names of various objects, especially if these items are of special interest to them, such as related to their favorite past-times. This can be practiced by applying name-tags to each item, or grouping them into categories, which also helps keep the mind sharp. Photographs cut into puzzles to be assembled and matching coupons to products on store shelves are other possibilities. Catching a ball is a good way to improve motor and cognitive skills.
Helping patients feel that they are needed and helpful can do a lot for their sense of self-worth. If they are assigned basic household tasks each day such as assisting with meal preparation, sweeping, washing dishes, or folding linens, it can help them feel as though they are a valued team member. This concept can also be taken a step further by having the person help with a canned good or toy drive for the needy.
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.
Animals can brighten up the day for most patients. The friendly attention and cute antics of a dog or cat, or colorful beauty of a tropical bird or aquarium can be entertaining and relaxing to watch. Another way to calm the patient is with a soothing massage, manicure/pedicure, or a nice shave, since their senses are still fully responsive.
When patients are encouraged to take part in various activities, it can help stir up pleasant memories, build closeness with others, and give them a feeling of belonging and usefulness. This approach counteracts the sense of isolation which can result from dementia, and helps bring happiness and the ability to take pride in one's accomplishments back into the person's life.
Suitable activities are determined by the patient's particular interests and skills. Tasks should be kept simple, safe, and free of correction, since the primary aim is to keep the person engaged and happy. There may be certain time of day during which the patient may respond best, and they will sometimes develop favorite things to do, in which case it's a good idea to devise a schedule based on this.
If the person had a hobby which he or she enjoyed in the past, it can be reintroduced in a simpler form. Performing the familiar action can help them recall the satisfaction associated with it. Exercise and time outdoors can also be therapeutic. It need not be strenuous to boost endorphins and give one a sense of well-being, just a walk, some yoga or Tai Chi moves, or swimming work well.
Games are a fun way to help patients remember the names of various objects, especially if these items are of special interest to them, such as related to their favorite past-times. This can be practiced by applying name-tags to each item, or grouping them into categories, which also helps keep the mind sharp. Photographs cut into puzzles to be assembled and matching coupons to products on store shelves are other possibilities. Catching a ball is a good way to improve motor and cognitive skills.
Helping patients feel that they are needed and helpful can do a lot for their sense of self-worth. If they are assigned basic household tasks each day such as assisting with meal preparation, sweeping, washing dishes, or folding linens, it can help them feel as though they are a valued team member. This concept can also be taken a step further by having the person help with a canned good or toy drive for the needy.
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.
Animals can brighten up the day for most patients. The friendly attention and cute antics of a dog or cat, or colorful beauty of a tropical bird or aquarium can be entertaining and relaxing to watch. Another way to calm the patient is with a soothing massage, manicure/pedicure, or a nice shave, since their senses are still fully responsive.
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