Activities to Help Support Loved Ones with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

By Fiona Sembiring | November 30, 2023

Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disease that impacts 1 in 10 people over the age of 65. Dementia, on the other hand, is often confused for Alzheimer’s disease, but it is actually a term used for the collection of abnormal symptoms that affect a person’s thinking, functioning, and interaction with others. People with dementia may be irritated or annoyed by new things, can have trouble focusing, have trouble remembering, and have difficulty using proper judgment. Although dementia is not a disease, dementia can be brought on by a disease or medical condition, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, multiple strokes, traumatic brain injury, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Alzheimer’s and dementia are not only difficult for the individual but also the family members they impact. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but family members can take action by educating themselves on how to better take care of their loved ones.

Studies have shown that participating in activities can have a positive behavioral effect on people with Alzheimer’s disease. It can decrease negative emotions (such as anxiety, agitation, aggression, and apathy), reduce the risk of disability, and help individuals remain independent. Preferred activities based on skills, abilities, and interests keeps them engaged physically, mentally, and sensationally. Participation in activities can overall increase the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Activities to Try

In this article, we’ve provided some ideas for different physical, mental, and sensory activities you can try with your loved one!

Physical Activities

Some physical activities you can do with your loved one include walking, stretching, range of motion exercises, biking, swimming, dancing, lifting light weights, housework, gardening, and shopping. All activities can be modified to your loved one’s abilities. For example, activities like dancing and lifting weights can be limited to upper-body movements for those in wheelchairs. 

Mental Activities

Some mental activities you can do with your loved one include reading, reminiscing, and putting together puzzles. Mental activities increase blood circulation in the brain, which can stimulate memory, improve focus, and slow down or prevent decline.

Sensory Activities

Some sensory activities you can do with your loved one include aromatherapy, cooking, listening to windchimes or sound machines, playing with a pet, snuggling in a warm and fuzzy blanket, hugging, and looking at pictures together. 

Common Barriers to Activity Participation

Family members may find some barriers to getting a loved one to participate in an activity. It is important to note your loved one’s preferences, skills, abilities, and interests when picking an activity. Continue to try different activities until you find the right for you. 

Fear or Resistance

Some individuals fear either doing the activity or not being able to do the activity. Either way, the person should never be forced to participate.

Getting Started

Some individuals have trouble getting started. They want to participate but are confused about the activity. Demonstrate simple step-by-step actions and provide help if needed.

Stuck in a Routine

Some individuals prefer to stick to old habits and routines at certain times of the day. A 30 minute activity can be broken up throughout the day and inserted into the schedule whenever it makes the most sense.

Doing activities together with a loved one can increase the quality of life for both the individual with Alzheimer’s disease, as well as their family members. Activities provide a distraction, entertainment, and increase communication and overall engagement. Whether it’s daily, occasional, planned, or spur-of-the-moment, start one activity together today!

At Samaritan Senior Care, we believe in providing transparent and personalized support to help you navigate the difficulties of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Our dedicated team is committed to assisting you every step of the way, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the necessary standard and quality of care involved.

For more information and personalized guidance on in-home care services, reach out to Samaritan Senior Care today. Our experts are here to address your concerns and provide you with the necessary information to make well-informed decisions that prioritize the well-being of your loved ones.

All content and information on our website is created for informational purposes only. The information presented does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult an appropriate professional for advice related to your specific situation.