Dementia is the umbrella term for a group of conditions that affects your memory, language and cognitive function, which eventually impairs your quality of life and relationships.
If you’re a caregiver or a family member looking after a senior loved one with dementia, you can still find moments and do activities that can bring them joy.
Here are 21 activities that you can do with a senior living with dementia, all of which promote mental stimulation, sensory engagement, and moments of joy.
Fun and creative things for older adults with dementia
1. Experiment with sounds
Creating and listening to music can trigger memories and emotions. Explore the world of sounds through musical instruments, wind chimes or even a simple set of bells.
2. Explore drawing and crafts
Encourage creative expression through drawing, painting, or crafting. Even simple projects, like the following, can be enjoyable and therapeutic:
- Card making
- Arranging flowers
- Collaging
3. Do puzzles or play with therapy animals
Engage in puzzle-solving or interact with therapy animals. These activities can provide comfort and mental stimulation.
4. Look at scrapbooks
Compile scrapbooks filled with photographs and mementos from the elderly’s past. Sharing these memories can be a wonderful bonding experience, one that allows them to take a trip down the memory lane.
5. Do pasta threading
Thread pasta onto strings to create colourful and tactile jewellery. It’s a hands-on activity that stimulates fine motor skills.
6. Work in the garden
Gardening allows seniors to connect with nature and enjoy the sensory experiences of soil, plants and fresh air.
It’s a physical activity that establishes a routine and structure in their daily routine. As they watch the plants grow, they’ll eventually develop a sense of accomplishment, which can boost their self-esteem.
7. Explore the fish tank
Watching fish swim in an aquarium can be soothing and captivating. If you regularly spend time around the elderly living with dementia, consider setting up a fish tank in the living space. Keeping a pet is an added responsibility for you, but its benefits can greatly help the senior.
8. Make a memory box
Create a memory box filled with cherished items to serve as a visual reminder of important life moments. Here are some things that you can fill it with:
- Old letters
- Postcards
- Trinkets
9. Play balloon volleyball
A gentle game of balloon volleyball can promote physical activity and laughter. It’s a great way to keep the body and mind active.
10. Look at old family photo albums
Browse through old family photo albums and reminisce about past gatherings and events. For seniors with dementia who may struggle with memory loss and confusion, looking at familiar faces and places in photographs can help reinforce their sense of identity and self-worth.
Sharing stories can also trigger memories, stimulate the mind and foster connections.
11. Take a walk outside
Enjoy the benefits of fresh air and natural surroundings by taking a leisurely stroll in the garden or around the neighbourhood.
This activity is a low-impact form of exercise that benefits the senior in so many ways, including:
- Stimulating the senses
- Increases exposure to natural light
- Reduces stress
- Provides an opportunity for social interaction
- Enhances mood
12. Sit on the porch and drink coffee, hot chocolate or lemonade
Sipping a favourite beverage on the porch while enjoying the outdoors can be a relaxing and enjoyable routine. This helps in reducing stress and provides a sense of calm for the elderly.
13. Watch an old movie
Watching classic movies or shows from the past can evoke feelings of nostalgia and provide entertainment.
14. Play card games
Simple card games like Go Fish or Memory can help stimulate memory and cognitive function.
15. Explore colouring books
Colouring books designed for adults with dementia offer a creative outlet and an opportunity to focus on artistic expression. Tracing the outlines and choosing colours encourages them to focus and be in the moment.
16. Dance to favourite songs
Put on music from the senior’s youth and enjoy a dance together. Music and movement can bring joy and emotional connection.
17. Establish mealtime routines
Mealtime can be a social and sensory experience. If you’re a caregiver, you can engage the senior living with dementia in the meal preparation process, from setting the table to helping with simple cooking tasks.
18. Join community activities
Participate in community events or group activities tailored to seniors with dementia. These outings can promote social interaction and a sense of belonging.
19. Fold laundry
Folding laundry can be a calming and familiar activity that also helps maintain fine motor skills.
20. Touch the past
Provide objects with different textures, such as fabrics or textured surfaces, for tactile stimulation.
21. Taste fond memories
Prepare their favourite dishes or treats that evoke memories of special occasions or family traditions. This doesn’t only stimulate their senses, but it can also stir up emotions and feelings from the past.
Key takeaway
Engaging in enjoyable activities tailored to seniors with dementia can enhance their quality of life, foster emotional connections and provide moments of happiness. These activities not only stimulate the mind but also promote physical well-being and emotional engagement.
As a caregiver or family member your role in facilitating these activities can create meaningful and fulfilling experiences for them
