Alzheimer's disease affects the memory, behavior, and thinking processes of those afflicted with it. It is the most common form of dementia, which unfortunately cannot be stopped from advancing, however its effects can be minimized with some stimulating activities for Alzheimer patients. Meaningful, thought-provoking, and comforting activities help these people maintain relationships and a sense of identity.
When patients are encouraged to take part in various activities, it can help stir up pleasant memories, build closeness with others, and give them a feeling of belonging and usefulness. This approach counteracts the sense of isolation which can result from dementia, and helps bring happiness and the ability to take pride in one's accomplishments back into the person's life.
Suitable activities are determined by the patient's particular interests and skills. Tasks should be kept simple, safe, and free of correction, since the primary aim is to keep the person engaged and happy. There may be certain time of day during which the patient may respond best, and they will sometimes develop favorite things to do, in which case it's a good idea to devise a schedule based on this.
Any hobbies the patient used to enjoy before they developed dementia may once again bring joy to him or her if reintroduced in a basic form. The familiar actions can spark memories in the patient, reminding him or her of their love for this activity. Getting outdoors for some exercise can benefit most patients, whether its for a nature walk, or therapeutic activity such a swimming, yoga, or Tai Chi. The boost in endorphins will naturally lift one's spirit.
Games are a fun way to help patients remember the names of various objects, especially if these items are of special interest to them, such as related to their favorite past-times. This can be practiced by applying name-tags to each item, or grouping them into categories, which also helps keep the mind sharp. Photographs cut into puzzles to be assembled and matching coupons to products on store shelves are other possibilities. Catching a ball is a good way to improve motor and cognitive skills.
It is important that the patient does not begin to feel as though he or she is useless, which can give way to depression. Involving them in daily tasks such as tidying up a kitchen, cooking a meal, or folding towels helps the person feel like they are needed and part of a team. Including the patient in a community project such as collecting canned goods or toys for the needy also helps create a sense of purpose.
Patients may also enjoy reminiscing about the past by looking at old photos or items of sentimental value to them, or by recording into a book a collection of stories from their younger years. This helps them remember who they are and where they have come from. Many will respond favorably to music from their past if it is played for them, by singing along or dancing.
Pets can add a lot of happiness to the lives of patients; whether it's the affection shown by a friendly dog or cat, or simply watching the antics and bright colors of fish in an aquarium or caged birds. Alzheimer's disease doesn't impair the senses, and most patients also enjoy a relaxing massage with lotion, shave, or a manicure and pedicure.
When patients are encouraged to take part in various activities, it can help stir up pleasant memories, build closeness with others, and give them a feeling of belonging and usefulness. This approach counteracts the sense of isolation which can result from dementia, and helps bring happiness and the ability to take pride in one's accomplishments back into the person's life.
Suitable activities are determined by the patient's particular interests and skills. Tasks should be kept simple, safe, and free of correction, since the primary aim is to keep the person engaged and happy. There may be certain time of day during which the patient may respond best, and they will sometimes develop favorite things to do, in which case it's a good idea to devise a schedule based on this.
Any hobbies the patient used to enjoy before they developed dementia may once again bring joy to him or her if reintroduced in a basic form. The familiar actions can spark memories in the patient, reminding him or her of their love for this activity. Getting outdoors for some exercise can benefit most patients, whether its for a nature walk, or therapeutic activity such a swimming, yoga, or Tai Chi. The boost in endorphins will naturally lift one's spirit.
Games are a fun way to help patients remember the names of various objects, especially if these items are of special interest to them, such as related to their favorite past-times. This can be practiced by applying name-tags to each item, or grouping them into categories, which also helps keep the mind sharp. Photographs cut into puzzles to be assembled and matching coupons to products on store shelves are other possibilities. Catching a ball is a good way to improve motor and cognitive skills.
It is important that the patient does not begin to feel as though he or she is useless, which can give way to depression. Involving them in daily tasks such as tidying up a kitchen, cooking a meal, or folding towels helps the person feel like they are needed and part of a team. Including the patient in a community project such as collecting canned goods or toys for the needy also helps create a sense of purpose.
Patients may also enjoy reminiscing about the past by looking at old photos or items of sentimental value to them, or by recording into a book a collection of stories from their younger years. This helps them remember who they are and where they have come from. Many will respond favorably to music from their past if it is played for them, by singing along or dancing.
Pets can add a lot of happiness to the lives of patients; whether it's the affection shown by a friendly dog or cat, or simply watching the antics and bright colors of fish in an aquarium or caged birds. Alzheimer's disease doesn't impair the senses, and most patients also enjoy a relaxing massage with lotion, shave, or a manicure and pedicure.
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