People with Alzheimer’s or dementia can still lead meaningful, enjoyable lives.

Understandably, caregivers get overwhelmed from time to time with the amount of work they have to do; however, integrating a new activity or two every day is not only beneficial for the person with dementia, but can also prove relaxing for the caregiver.

Things to do:

Activities

Activities needn’t be structured. Whether you’re caring for your loved one at home or visiting at a facility, activities can be as simple as playing cards or a board game. Try bringing along a blank photo album with pictures that you can put inside together. The key is to find activities that are stimulating but not overwhelming. Make a list of your loved one’s hobbies and interests to help you brainstorm activities that can be adapted to fit his or her current level of dementia.

Animals

If your loved one likes animals, consider animal therapy. Visits from calm animals are a great way to introduce something new and interesting to his or her environment, and research has shown that the interaction between humans and animals have therapeutic healing qualities. Make sure the animal you bring is not aggressive or excitable, and stay close during initial visits.

Exercise

Speak to your loved one’s physician so you know what kinds of exercise are physically possible. Daily walks are beneficial for both of you, but if that’s not appropriate, you may want to consider chair exercises such as the Sit and Be Fit routines shown on public television. Remember, as with any exercise routine, a little is better than nothing at all.

Music

When a person has lost the ability to communicate, music can sometimes act as a new form of communication. Many of us have a powerful emotional response to music, and dementia patients are no different. Experiment by playing music you think your loved one would enjoy. Big band, classical, New Age mixed with nature sounds or religious music are all good starting points. You’ll know you’ve “struck a chord” if you catch your loved one humming along, mouthing the words or simply showing a better appetite when the music plays.

Reminiscence

You may already be incorporating “reminiscence” activities without even knowing it. Does your loved one tell you stories from the past when a memory springs to mind? This is often times the basis for reminiscing. It can occur organically when you look at photographs or conversation prompts a memory. As a caregiver, you can promote reminiscing by helping with associations that come up in conversation. Many people with dementia are comforted by returning to distant memories, since the past feels far more familiar. Objects from childhood, such as dolls or other toys, can help jog memories from earlier in life.

Socializing

Every person has different social needs. Some people prefer to be left alone for long periods of time, while others enjoy companionship. Assess your loved one’s social needs and try to find ways to meet them. Often volunteers can be integrated into a schedule so as to provide companionship and allow you a chance for your own personal time. Adult day care and adult day health care programs give older adults the opportunity to socialize with a group of peers; before making an appointment, make sure the program accepts participants with dementia. Some programs specialize in this type of care and incorporate activities tailored to the needs and interests of people with dementia.

Touching

For many older adults, the only type of human touch they experience is clinical, such as during doctor’s appointments. But most humans have a need for physical contact. Small gestures that include touching can provide a sense of well-being and assuage feelings of loneliness. When approaching your loved one, make careful movements that won’t cause alarm. Some noninvasive ways of touching include massaging cream into feet or hands and brushing your loved one’s hair.

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