Games and activities designed to stimulate cognitive abilities have proven to be useful in slowing the effects of dementia. Experts report pastimes that engage cognitive abilities also boost psychological wellbeing, socialization, and overall quality of life. Best of all, games, puzzles, and other mind-stimulating activities can bring a missing ingredient back into the life of an aging loved one with dementia: fun. Do you have an aging parent, grandparent, or loved one who has been diagnosed with dementia? Find out how to promote total health for your loved one using memory-based activities.
Playing Games
Although there are new games and puzzles available that are specifically intended for use by seniors with dementia, the jury is out over whether high-tech games are more effective than the old standards. Seniors in the early stages of dementia may feel more comfortable with familiar card games like Go Fish, board games like checkers, and simple puzzles. Flash cards used to teach children to associate words with pictures can be used to boost memory as well.
A professional caregiver can be a wonderful game-playing companion for your loved one. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality senior home care. Danville families trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably.
Reminiscence Therapy
Another type of pastime seniors with dementia can enjoy while boosting their cognitive abilities is known as reminiscence therapy. This includes any activity that triggers memories, such as singing along with familiar songs, looking through photo albums, or scrapbooking. Everyday activities like cooking and gardening can also help seniors with dementia recall forgotten memories. For family caregivers, asking non-specific questions about your loved one’s past, such as what kinds of things he or she enjoyed doing as a teenager, can evoke cherished memories that can help you strengthen your bond.
Aging adults who need help managing mental and physical health issues can benefit from the assistance of highly trained professional caregivers. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Danville families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Understanding Your Loved One’s Abilities
Whatever games and activities you undertake with your loved one, it’s very important not to become frustrated or disappointed if you don’t see immediate results. If you approach mentally stimulating activities with a sense of fun and humor, both of you will be more likely to want to repeat the experience. Remember your primary responsibility as a caregiver is to help your loved one enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Danville families can rely on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life. To learn more about our reliable, compassionate in-home care services, contact us at (925) 332-1276 today.
