When it comes to dementia care, activities play a vital role. That’s because they help people to lead a more healthy and happier life. Another thing they do is provide structure and routine in one’s life. And that’s something everyone needs, not just people that have dementia.
What types of activities work best?
Activities help to raise one’s self-esteem. Plus, they can often reduce things like sadness, boredom and anxiety.
It’s important to find out what challenges you are trying to overcome with a dementia patient. That way, you can help to improve their quality of life in the best way possible. Here are a few examples of activities that have positive results with dementia sufferers:
Art Activities
When a person feels withdrawn or lacks confidence, art activities can give them a boost. There are plenty of examples how dementia patients can get involved with arts activities.
For example, they could take up painting or use watercolours to create new paintings. It’s also possible for people with limited motor skills to paint. That’s thanks, in part, to specially-designed palettes and brushes
Craft Activities
Some dementia patients feel useless and surplus to requirements, so to speak. Craft activities offer a way of engagement and purpose. They could learn new skills or continue with existing ones like knitting or crochet.
Of course, craft isn’t just about making clothing! Craft activities encompass all kinds of building projects. Things like creating model play or using modelling clay are two such examples. One of the main benefits of crafts is that they stimulate the brain and keep it busy.
Exercise and Keeping Fit
Quite often, people with dementia feel unmotivated and not wish to do anything physical. Sometimes it can be down to physical mobility problems rather than mental health issues.
Believe it or not, there is a whole host of physical activities that all dementia sufferers could do. Sure, there are obvious ones like walking or playing sports, for example. But, there are indoor ones where patients could play sitting down. Things like seated aerobics or even playing darts.
Even the simplest of physical activities encourage patients with dementia to be more active.
Travel
Even people with severe mobility issues can still enjoy travelling. When a person has dementia, it’s important they have access to familiar home comforts. Having said that, a change of scenery is always welcome by those living with dementia.
It’s possible to arrange short breaks or holidays for people that suffer from dementia. Often, accommodation providers can offer any help if needed.
Travel is a fun way to keep one’s mind occupied with more positive thoughts. It’s also a way for people to relive happier times in their lives. For instance, having the chance to revisit places from their childhood.
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