With the changeable weather, loved ones can spend alot of boring days cooped up inside. And for those living with Dementia, these weather conditions can exacerbate feelings of confusion, disorientation and fright (especially if your loved one is upset by storms).
Rainy days can leave the best of us feeling a little down, but a shared activity with someone you care about can help you both feel happier, all while spending some quality time together. Having Dementia doesn’t mean you have to stop doing the things you enjoy, and there are many meaningful activities for people with Dementia that are simple, affordable, and easy to do from the comfort of your own home. From card-making to bird watching, explore our Dementia activity ideas below.
Activities for People with Dementia at Home
So, where should you start when it comes to activities for people with Dementia? Firstly, Dementia activities don’t necessarily need to be expensive or elaborate. The most important factor to consider is how mentally engaging and inclusive they are. The more stimulating and entertaining the activity is, the less likely your loved one is to experience feelings of depression, frustration and irritability.
Dementia friendly activities should enable your loved one to:
- Reminisce about their life
- Express themselves
- Feel more engaged
- Be productive
- Foster emotional connections with those closest to them
Whether you’re creating activities based on longstanding interests or you’re trying something completely new, there are plenty of effective Dementia friendly options to bear in mind for when the skies darken.
Dementia Activity Ideas
Puzzles and Board Games
Puzzles and board games are an ideal activity for those living with Dementia, as they allow multiple people to be involved. Jigsaws are particularly versatile, as you can adapt the type based on where your loved one is in their Dementia journey. For mild or early stage Dementia, a 3D puzzle could be very absorbing, but for later stages, a 24 piece option may be more appropriate. When it comes to board games, try to choose options that your loved one enjoyed when they were younger. Examples might include large print Scrabble, Bridge, card games or dominoes.
Scrapbooking
Scrapbooking is among the best Dementia activities for stimulating reminiscence. Find old photographs that are meaningful for your loved one to stick down and encourage them to discuss those times in their lives as part of the process. Whether it’s memories related to holidays, work or their first grandchild, this kind of activity is great for aiding communication and enabling your loved one to express themselves.
Bird-watching
Bird-watching can be a fascinating hobby, so why not make a cup of tea and spend the afternoon looking out for different types of birds? A visual guide may be particularly helpful for someone living with Dementia, as colourful imagery will provide stimulation and help them to recall memories. Bird-watching is perhaps one of the easiest activities for people with Dementia, and a great way to connect with family and friends.
Baking
When it comes to Dementia friendly activities, baking may not seem like an obvious option, but it’s one that can easily be enjoyed together. Following a recipe provides structure and routine, and the different steps will give those living with Dementia the opportunity to express their abilities and preferences. Be sure to plan ingredients ahead to avoid any confusion, and to focus on the enjoyment of doing the activity together – not achieving the ‘perfect’ bake!
Reading aloud
Reading aloud is very simple, and yet it can be one of the most meaningful activities for people with Dementia. Dementia affects a person’s ability to read with comprehension, which can be hard for elderly people who are used to settling down with a good book. Pop the kettle on, choose one of your loved ones’ favourite reads and help them to become immersed in the story.
So there you have it, some of our easiest and most meaningful activities for people with Dementia. When the next downpour happens, remember that the aim of these activities is to spend quality time with your loved one, and to help them to feel involved in their own lives.
Need help with activities for people with Dementia at home?
At IP Homecare, our live-in carers are on hand to provide 24 hour, around-the-clock support – including assisting your loved ones with Dementia friendly activities when you’re unable to be there. Whether it’s simple companionship, medication management or help with personal care, our Dementia care services enable those living with this condition to remain in the comfort of their own homes.
If you’re considering live-in care options for a loved one living with Dementia, get in touch with us today. Our friendly team are available for discuss your individual circumstances, or to help you arrange a free care assessment. You can also call us on 0808 163 9564 to discuss your options.