It is common knowledge that elderly people with dementia lose their short-term memory first and their long-term memory last. For example, they often remember people and events from their earlier years but have difficulty remembering what they ate for breakfast the day before. A while back, a family member asked me "what do you do with someone who can no longer carry on a normal conversation?" The short answer is "Relax and have fun." The long answer would require writing a whole book. A short summary of some activities include the following:
- Reminisce! Everything you do together lends itself to recalling memories. If the person can still speak fairly well, say, “Tell me about...” If his vocabulary is more limited, you may have to facilitate the story. “Do you remember when...” As you bake cookies together you can talk about your loved one’s favorite cookies, meals, etc.
- Read aloud and use visual aids such as memory poems, family pictures, or stories about "the days gone by" stimulate memories. Ideas include Chicken Soup for the Soul series and familiar short stories.
- Make music. Sing, hum, whistle, dance. Singing brings oxygen to the brain to help you think more clearly. Dancing exercises other parts of the body. Both increase your own sense of well-being as well as the well-being of your loved one. Play music often. Choose your loved one’s favorite music or singer.
Sensory stimulation activities could include the following:
- Making lap quilts
- Painting
- Making scrap books with familiar photos
- Walking
- Flower arranging
- Tutoring, or visiting with children
- Baking
- Happy hour with non-alcoholic drinks with friends
- Ice cream party
- Brushing & fixing hair
- Manicures
- Building with wood (include sanding)
Keeping the mind and body active are important for everyone, but especially your loved one with dementia. Do something that is enjoyable for both of you, and it makes it that much easier.
Published in partnership with Caregiver.com.
Written by Jennifer Buckley, Staff Writer.