As your loved one faces memory loss and cognitive decline, you may be wondering whether any particular activities can help. For seniors with dementia, mentally stimulating activities can indeed play a role in enhancing cognitive function and quality of life. While they can’t halt the progression of dementia, evidence shows that such activities can help slow it. Try some of these engaging activities to enrich your loved one’s life.
Playing Games
Board and card games are fun activities for many seniors with dementia. Such games can promote strategic thinking, while activities like bingo enhance quick thinking abilities. Mentally challenging activities like games can also enhance memory, processing speed, and attention, research has found.
If your loved one has difficulty playing games they’ve always enjoyed, consider board games designed specifically for people with dementia.
Doing Puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles can be a relaxing yet stimulating activity. And like games, some puzzles are created specifically for seniors with dementia. They feature beautiful scenes and a manageable number of pieces (anywhere from 16 to 100, for instance). You could also try doing sudoku or crossword puzzles with seniors.
Music Therapy
Musical activities like singing or playing an instrument can improve cognitive function in people with dementia, research has found. Further, music can act as a form of communication even when seniors have difficulty communicating in speech, building social bonds. Plus, it has positive effects on mood, reducing agitation and boosting enjoyment of life.
Try singing songs that seniors know, like Christmas carols, for instance. Often, the lyrics and music will bring up welcome memories.
Drawing and Painting
Art can foster self-expression as well as slowing cognitive decline, research has found. Further, it can enhance psychological resilience and quality of life. Activities like coloring, painting, and sketching can provide mental stimulation along with social engagement as you talk about what the senior is creating.
Reading
Reading aloud with seniors also boosts mental stimulation. Tackling a full novel might feel disorienting for seniors with dementia, so instead, try reading short stories, poems, or interesting articles. Talk about what you’ve read, asking for their thoughts to prompt critical thinking.
Crafting
Learning a craft can be mentally enriching. Try introducing a craft project or a new technique, like a type of crochet stitch. From making paper flowers or handmade cards to sculpting with clay, there are plenty of crafting options to choose from. Keep in mind that dementia can affect fine motor skills, so select a craft that fits a senior’s individual ability level.
These activities can all help seniors build social bonds, improving overall well-being while providing mental stimulation. If you’ve opted for in-home care for your loved one, a home care aide might do some of these activities with them. Tell the caregiver about your loved one’s hobbies and favorite activities so they can make them a regular part of the rotation.
Wondering if companion care is right for your loved one? Schedule a free nurse consultation call to discuss how home care can benefit your family.
