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Matters of the Mind
By
Beverly Moore |
Question:
I’ve heard staying active is good for people with dementia?
How can I help make those activities enjoyable?
Answer:
The person with dementia often cannot initiate meaningful
and pleasurable activity for themselves. When they are
idle (like watching television), they become restless and
disoriented with an increased risk of confusion and
irritability. Rummaging, hiding objects, roaming and pacing
are ways to work off this energy and feel as if they are
doing something meaningful. There is increased risk at these
times of a person with dementia wandering away “to find
something to do or someone familiar to be with.”
To avoid these risks, the care partner must structure the
day with meaningful activity. Whatever the activity, it
should be based on the familiar, be enjoyable (for both of
you), and success oriented (fail free). It must be one that
is shared with another person. People with dementia cannot
sustain attention and interest. Your participation is the
visual cue needed to help keep them engaged. Don’t be
concerned if they don’t actively participate. Even if the
person passively engages in an activity it is better than
being inactive.
Outdoor activities provide opportunity for physical exercise
and a feeling of well being. Be sensitive to the person’s
needs and interests, be flexible, and make room for
communication of feelings. Guide the conversation:
easy and focused. Talk about what you are experiencing being
with them. Reminisce about times past. Share your memory of
good times with them in particular. They will be happy they
gave you something special to remember. |
About The Author
Beverly
is owner of Alzheimer Coaching Services which serves
Metropolitan and West Suburban Boston, South Shore, Suffolk,
south Norfolk and Bristol counties. She offers coaching to
understand dementia and to learn how to accommodate the
person through habilitation methods. Three Title III E Older
American Act grants provide free coaching to families in the
south Norfolk, South Shore and Bristol areas. Her company is
located in Quincy and you may reach her at (617) 233-1145 or
visit her web site at
www.alzheimercoachingservices.com
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