One of the most difficult aspects of caring for an aging loved one with dementia is finding activities that are both safe and fun. Dementia not only impacts cognitive abilities, but it can also take a toll on physical health. Here’s a quick look at five engaging, safe, and inexpensive activities that are perfect for seniors with dementia.
1. Collecting & Arranging Flowers
To boost cognitive health, seniors should try out hobbies that stimulate multiple senses at the same time. Arranging flowers is a simple activity that can increase your loved one’s hand-eye coordination and encourage him or her to come up with eye-catching color combinations. Collecting flowers at the park or out in the garden is a great way to gently raise the heart rate while enjoying some sunlight.
Dementia is one of the many health conditions that can make it difficult to manage daily activities. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Potomac families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
2. Scrapbooking
This popular hobby can easily be carried out with nothing more than a notebook, some glue, a pair of safety scissors, and a few magazines. If your loved one has mild dementia, try to come up with different activities, such as making themed collages or recreating certain memories with the pictures he or she cuts out. As your loved one’s dementia progresses, setting easier challenges, such as sticking to a single color or only using certain shapes, might be more appropriate.
3. Singing Along to Songs
Many studies have shown that listening to music is beneficial for seniors with dementia. Singing along to memorable songs can activate multiple areas of the brain at the same time and minimize the symptoms of dementia. Encouraging your loved one to play a percussion instrument such as a tambourine or bongos is another simple way to make this activity more engaging.
4. Doing Minor Chores
It might sound counterintuitive, but some seniors with dementia enjoy doing minor chores. Performing chores can keep seniors stimulated and provide them with a sense of purpose. While researchers still have quite a bit to learn about dementia, they know setting and completing goals can boost a senior’s psychological health. Some chores your loved one might enjoy include sweeping, folding clothes, cleaning windows, and dusting.
If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of respite care. Potomac seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable home caregivers.
5. Cooking or Baking Simple Recipes
Cooking or baking simple recipes with a family member or caregiver is a great pastime for seniors with dementia. Some recipes have no more than two or three ingredients, and caregivers can carry out simple steps such as cutting vegetables or sautéing. If your loved one is having difficulty following recipes, look for cookbooks with clear instructions and plenty of pictures.
One of the most challenging tasks of helping an aging relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide elderly home care. Turn to Assisting Hands Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties. Assisting Hands Home Care can be your trusted partner in caregiving for your aging loved one. Contact one of our experienced Care Specialists today to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.
