Individuals living with memory decline benefit from quality dementia and Alzheimer’s programming in Melbourne, FL. Whether the individual is receiving care in a memory care facility or still living at home, here are some suggestions for activities that help slow down mental decline.
Music
Many people have powerful reactions to music because it triggers an emotional response. Listening to music and participating in music-related activities help dementia patients access emotions, and the musical rhythm can also help improve motor skills.
Nature
Being in nature is an excellent therapy for dementia patients. Walking in nature or simply sitting on a park bench and listening to the birds encourages the senses to work harder. It’s also peaceful and relaxing. Stress can worsen Alzheimer’s symptoms, and taking time to be still in nature can reset the nervous system.
Games
Games are great for maintaining cognitive function. However, don’t get frustrated if someone doesn’t remember the rules. It’s common for people with cognitive decline to forget the rules. That’s okay. Just go with it!
Outings
Getting people out of their environment and into a social setting with other like-minded individuals is excellent for dementia patients. Because dementia causes people to wonder, it’s a good idea to schedule these outings with a facility (if the individual is living at home) for a little extra peace of mind. Ideas for outings might be a baseball game, fishing, visiting the zoo, or going out for ice cream.
Alzheimer’s programming in Melbourne, FL, can’t reverse the effects of the disease, but it can help the disease progress slower and give families more time with their loved ones.