It’s important to know that behaviour issues, depression, anxiety and many other symptoms associated with dementia can be alleviated when your loved one takes part in a balanced programme filled with enjoyable activities. With this in mind, Livewell runs a daily programme that is filled with person-centred activities and outings.
Livewell’s pioneering approach focuses on the importance of creating an environment that encourages the continuation of a person living with dementia personal exploration rather than their decline. The philosophy maintains that taking care of plants and animals, as well as interacting with other adults and children, promotes a positive lifestyle, which in turn enables your loved one to live a happier, fulfilled and healthier life.
We’ve put together a list of 5 stimulating activities that you can do with your loved ones who are living with dementia.
Music Therapy
When used appropriately, music can shift moods, manage stress-induced agitation, stimulate positive interactions, facilitate cognitive function, and coordinate motor movements. Start by introducing music to your loved ones either through the radio or actually playing an instrument for them. You can also encourage them to play the instrument themselves, drumming works well as it allows for therapeutic expression. Playing music from their younger years and encouraging dancing are wonderful ways to carry out music activities at home.
Gardening
Spending time in the garden and being amongst nature can be extremely therapeutic. Allow your loved ones to plant a few seedlings or just walk around the garden from time to time. Creating a sensory garden is such a great form of stimulation for your loved one with dementia. Lavender, basil and mint all have great olfactory and taste stimulation properties, willow trees are visually and auditory very calming and bright red and orange flowers are visually stimulating. Having a garden that is stimulating is much more interesting to work in.
Sports and Games
There are certain types of sport that can be safe for persons living with dementia to play. Games such as bowls/croquet, cards and golf are fun and stimulating if conducted in a safe and controlled environment. Playing sports and games can encourage teamwork, competitiveness, alertness and help maintain motor abilities.
Arts and Crafts
The residents at Livewell enjoy keeping busy by working with their hands. Needle work, knitting, painting and scrapbooking are just some of the things you can do with your loved ones. The end product will encourage a feeling of fulfillment and pride, thus improving confidence. It is important to consider the special days/celebrations of the year such as valentine’s day and birthdays for ideas and inspirations for crafts as this also orientates your loved one to the time of year.
Outings
A change of scenery will do your loved ones wonders. Some of the places and things we suggest include the beach, parks, aquariums, botanical gardens and scenic drives. Taking your loved one out is wonderful, it promotes social interaction and awareness of others. Please ensure that your loved one with dementia is not left alone at any point in time.
We encourage you to carry out these type of activities at least once a week with your loved ones to increase engagement and keep them stimulated. Remember, these activities are also about the process, so try not to focus on the outcome but rather the time spent with your loves ones as well.