Caring for a loved one needs to be more than just taking care of his or her physical health.
Caregivers and those being cared for should also experience a personal connection and enjoy being together. When your loved one has Alzheimer's disease, it can be easy to miss that connection.
One way to re-engage with your loved one with memory loss is to spend time on “fun” activities. Although he or she may not remember the specific activity, your loved one will have a good feeling that will stay with him or her.
When planning the activity, choose the time of day that is best for your loved one – when he or she is most alert.
Think about your loved one – who he or she was before the illness – and try to find something that would suit his or her personality. Keep it simple. Be sure the activity will be safe for your loved one too. If he or she puts items in his mouth, don't play a game with small pieces. There are plenty of ideas to choose from. Try some sorting games. If your loved one was a baseball fan, he or she might enjoy sorting baseball cards.
Making decisions can be frustrating for a person with Alzheimer's so look for easy games that don't have many choices.
You can play catch – use a balloon or soft ball to toss back and forth. Even those in the later stages of Alzheimer's can enjoy music, especially songs from “back in the day.” Sing and dance together.
If you are expecting a visitor – a grandchild or niece or nephew – have some activities in mind to make the visit a pleasant experience. Arts and crafts can be a hit for everyone. Your loved one may find it relaxing to paint with watercolors, and working with play dough could be a great way to involve a grandchild. Baking is also a fun activity. Make something simple like cookies or brownies. Involve your loved one by having him or her stir the batter. Everyone will enjoy the results for dessert after dinner.
If it's nice outside, go to an area park with a safe walking path. Listen and watch the birds. Walk to a small lake or pond and sit on a bench together. For indoor activities, consider watching an old movie together or looking at old photo albums together. Listen to your loved one tell a story from his past and write it down or record it.
Find tasks around the house that your loved one can handle. Being helpful can boost his or her self-esteem and act as a reminder that he or she is still part of the family. Ask your loved one to sweep the front porch, wipe off the kitchen table, or fold towels.
Adding activities to your weekly routine may have other benefits too. It may help your loved one's mood and sleeping. These activities will also help you to see your loved one for the person they are, not just as a person in need of care.
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