Do you have a loved one in memory care? If you’re looking for a fun way to spend some time with them, these memory care activities can give you the chance to enjoy each other’s company and make some great moments together.
Memory Care Activities
Are you trying to find a good way to support your loved ones in a memory care community? One of the best things you can do for them is just to spend a little time with them. Research shows that individuals with age-related memory issues receive significant emotional and mental health benefits from positive social interactions. Staying engaged helps those in memory care feel socially connected and improves their cognitive skills. When you visit someone in memory care, try one of these activities to make the most of your time together.
Watch Some Video Memories Together
You don’t necessarily want to plop down and turn on the TV every time you visit your loved one. However, people with age-related memory issues can benefit from watching familiar videos, especially those that capture happy memories with themselves and the people that they love. Well-loved videos can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, and can even stimulate memory recovery in some people. If home videos aren’t available, you can try a favorite movie or television show from their childhood, or even a recording of a historical event like a famous concert.
Make a Memory Box
Did you know that your brain engages all five senses whenever it creates a memory? Because of this, a memory box can be an extremely effective way to engage with someone who has age-related memory issues. A memory box is pretty much what it sounds like: a box of items that evoke memories from your loved one’s past. You want to engage all five senses with whatever’s in the box, so get creative!
Make Some Art Together
Speaking of getting creative, making art with a loved one in memory care is a great way to engage them in a fun, no-fail activity. Creating art can give people a chance to express themselves in a new way, and working with art tools is also a good way to practice motor skills that can be affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s. And don’t worry — you don’t have to create complex masterpieces together. Even just playing with play-doh for an afternoon provides plenty of visual and tactile stimulation. Don’t worry about the results. Just follow your whims and have fun!
Do Something Useful Together
Many seniors in memory care struggle with feeling disconnected from the outside world. Doing productive things together can help them stay connected to their community, and also give them feelings of pride and self-esteem. You can tailor these activities to your loved one’s wants and needs. For example, if they used to be a chef, they may enjoy washing vegetables or helping you set a table. Or if they love volunteering for community causes, you can work together on a volunteer project like making blankets for children in need.
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These are only a few memory care activities you can try with a loved one. No matter how you spend your visit together, focus on fun and you’ll have a great time.
Are you looking for an assisted living, memory support, or physician-directed nursing community in Kansas City? Check out The Piper. Our team of experienced and compassionate professionals ensures that “residents feel secure” and comfortable immediately. At our warm and welcoming community, which is truly a “home within a home,” we foster social interaction, engagement, and the right amount of care. Our residents always come first. To learn more about our services or schedule a tour, please give us a call at 913-361-5136 or contact us online.