It's difficult to watch a loved one struggle with dementia, whether it is Alzheimer's or some other form of the disease. As these individuals begin to lose their memories, and the ability to function effectively, many become agitated, stressed, and angry. The internet is full of suggested activities that provide soothing sensory therapy for dementia patients.
Sometimes activities that seem to fascinate the very young are also effective with aging Alzheimer's patients. All of them involve items you probably already have in your pantry or cabinets. If not, you can pick them up inexpensively at dollar and big box stores. One game involves a plastic bag filled with water beads and small plastic objects for the individual to identify.
Scented cards can be a lot of fun, and may generate some good memories. You need cardboard, spices, herbs, perfumes, flowers, or any other object that has an aroma. While your loved one is guessing the smell, you might ask what it reminds her of. You could also share something pleasant you remember and associate with the odor.
Finger painting is a good way to get patients in the mood to express themselves. It might help with dexterity as well. Finger paints come in packages of several colors and are not expensive. You can even make your own with some gelatin, food coloring, cornstarch, and water. You'll need some butcher paper, which comes on rolls, and is easy to find.
Coin sorting is an activity that an older one might like. This works especially well if you, or other family members, routinely dump loose change into a jar and let it collect. Not only will it give the person something engaging to do, if you approach it correctly it will also give her a sense of purpose. You can place some glass bowls around the coin jar and let the loved one sort the change into the corresponding bowls.
A loop board is a good activity for those who still have some dexterity and patience. You will need a wooden board, cord, and some screw eyes. You might paint the board and add decorative designs that correspond to the screw placement. Threading the cord through the screws may be something you and the patient have to do together.
Popping bubble wrap is something that fascinates a lot of perfectly healthy adults. You might be surprised at how engrossed an Alzheimer's patient can get just sitting and popping the plastic bubbles. If you don't have any of these packing supplies on hand, they can be purchased very affordable at office supply and big box stores.
If you're a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer's, or just planning to visit a person with dementia, you need an arsenal of simple tools that soothe and comfort. Simple, childhood games are at least as effective as more complicated and expensive recreational activities. Anything that helps a loved one relax, and might trigger pleasant memories, is worth the effort.
Sometimes activities that seem to fascinate the very young are also effective with aging Alzheimer's patients. All of them involve items you probably already have in your pantry or cabinets. If not, you can pick them up inexpensively at dollar and big box stores. One game involves a plastic bag filled with water beads and small plastic objects for the individual to identify.
Scented cards can be a lot of fun, and may generate some good memories. You need cardboard, spices, herbs, perfumes, flowers, or any other object that has an aroma. While your loved one is guessing the smell, you might ask what it reminds her of. You could also share something pleasant you remember and associate with the odor.
Finger painting is a good way to get patients in the mood to express themselves. It might help with dexterity as well. Finger paints come in packages of several colors and are not expensive. You can even make your own with some gelatin, food coloring, cornstarch, and water. You'll need some butcher paper, which comes on rolls, and is easy to find.
Coin sorting is an activity that an older one might like. This works especially well if you, or other family members, routinely dump loose change into a jar and let it collect. Not only will it give the person something engaging to do, if you approach it correctly it will also give her a sense of purpose. You can place some glass bowls around the coin jar and let the loved one sort the change into the corresponding bowls.
A loop board is a good activity for those who still have some dexterity and patience. You will need a wooden board, cord, and some screw eyes. You might paint the board and add decorative designs that correspond to the screw placement. Threading the cord through the screws may be something you and the patient have to do together.
Popping bubble wrap is something that fascinates a lot of perfectly healthy adults. You might be surprised at how engrossed an Alzheimer's patient can get just sitting and popping the plastic bubbles. If you don't have any of these packing supplies on hand, they can be purchased very affordable at office supply and big box stores.
If you're a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer's, or just planning to visit a person with dementia, you need an arsenal of simple tools that soothe and comfort. Simple, childhood games are at least as effective as more complicated and expensive recreational activities. Anything that helps a loved one relax, and might trigger pleasant memories, is worth the effort.
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