Even if someone is losing their memory, they can still enjoy many activities. It is not that difficult to find interesting things that anyone with dementia can enjoy. Think of simple, relaxing activities.
Music-
Music is enjoyed by almost everyone, dementia has no bearing on the effect that some types of music can have on the mind. If one kind of music does not soothe or interested a resident, try another. Chances are that eventually they will be drawn to one type. Music is known to increase the flow of oxygen to the brain which has positive effects on dementia.
Sensory activities-
Sensory therapy is used in many treatments for a vast array of diseases and neuro-disabilities. Stimulating the senses with items such as warm washcloths, molding or handling clay, tossing birdseed filled bags, and exposure to aroma-therapy are all wonderful additions to this type of activity.
Shopping-
Some ALFs and skilled facilities use catalogs with colorful pictures in them for residents to ‘shop’ with. If the resident is still able to handle scissors safely, they may be asked to cut out pictures of items that have been placed in a list by the activity supervisor.
Art-
Modeling clay, painting pictures, or sculpting with paper mache can stimulate the mind. These activities help improve oxygen flow to the brain and increase the connections made by the brain when creative ideas are implemented. If a resident cannot handle a paint brush, allowing them to paint with their fingers is an acceptable substitute.
Gardening-
Indoor gardening offers both mental occupation and a sensory activity. Planting seeds in cups and watching the seeds sprout, then grow into plants is satisfying for dementia patients, even if they do not remember planting them. If flowers are planted, then the resident will have a colorful addition to their room that may improve their mood. Vegetables may be eaten and give the resident satisfaction knowing that they grew their snack or meal- even if only for the moment they are eating.
Video Games-
Some recent studies have shown that certain video games may provide a great amount of stimulation to the brains of those suffering from dementia. For those residents that are not prone to seizures, the brain must constantly work to make sense of the graphics being viewed. The connections forged by the constant activity may help slow the rate of dementia progression and provide stimulation.
