Participating in activities can promote a sense of accomplishment, independence and overall happiness for a person with dementia. It is important to remember that people with dementia are “people first,” and need to feel part of the world around them. It may be challenging for a family member or other caregiver to think of activities to engage a person with dementia, so I have compiled a list I hope you will find helpful. Pick activities the person can succeed in, keep directions simple and be flexible and encouraging!
- Play a game; change the rules to make them simpler if necessary.
- Garden together.
- Prepare meals together. Give the person a specific task such as washing the lettuce or mixing ingredients.
- Listen to music they used to enjoy. Sing together.
- Read short stories aloud.
- Look through old picture albums; encourage the person to reminisce.
- Share stories about the “good old days.”
- Complete art projects such as painting, scrapbooking, wood building, knitting or quilting.
- Exercise! Take a daily walk together or encourage participation in a senior’s exercise class.
- Plan outings to museums, parks, church, coffee or ice cream shops, places the person used to enjoy visiting.
- Sorting projects; paper, work related items, coins.
- Encourage participation in housekeeping such as dusting, wiping counters or folding laundry.
- Do hair and nails together.
- Care for a pet by grooming, feeding or walking.
- Puzzles and crossword puzzles.
- Watch classic movies together.
Find activities you both enjoy doing together while keeping the mind and body of your loved one living with dementia active!
By Amber Triebull
