After a life-altering diagnosis like Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, it’s important to stay active.
The person diagnosed with dementia might withdraw from activities he or she used to enjoying, even though continuing with those activities can help improve quality of life and may slow the loss of some cognitive function, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Staying active can also ease some problematic behaviors, such as wandering or agitation.
You have an important part
Caregivers play a crucial role in helping people with dementia remain active. Here are 10 tips for caregivers to keep their loved ones engaged:
- Keep the person’s skills and abilities in mind
A person with dementia who took piano lessons as a child, for example, might still be able to play songs he learned years ago. - Pay attention to what she enjoys
Watch her behavior for signs of irritation or agitation. Some people might enjoy watching sports; others might be frightened by the noise or crowds. - Consider activities the person takes on without direction
Does he set the table before meals without being asked or sweep the kitchen every day at the same time? If so, make these part of the routine, and if possible, try to build on them. - Keep physical limitations in mind
Older adults may have vision or hearing problems, for example, that limit their abilities, or other issues such as arthritis could make some activities difficult. - Focus on enjoyment, not achievement
Build on the abilities your loved one has. An accomplished artist might be frustrated about what he or she sees as the decline in their work, but a talented newcomer might like the opportunity for self-expression. If your painter isn’t happy with what’s on the canvas, think about pottery or ceramics, if possible. - Try to keep your loved one involved in daily life
Simple tasks like setting the table for dinner or feeding the pets, for example, can keep your loved one active and help build a sense that she is still contributing. - Find activities that relate to their past work life
Someone who worked in an office might enjoy activities that lets him organize things, like putting photos in an album. A farmer might enjoy yard work. - Stick with the favorites
Someone who enjoyed reading the newspaper while drinking her coffee will probably still enjoy the ritual, even if she can’t understand everything she is reading. - Watch the clock
You might have more success with some activities, such as bathing or dressing, earlier in the day than at night. - Adjust the activities as the disease progresses
As time passes, the person may have to take on more repetitive tasks, such as folding laundry instead of sorting it. And be prepared for the person to eventually take on less and less of a role in the activity over time.
