mardi 3 juillet 2018

6 Simple Activities That Provide Soothing Sensory Therapy For Dementia Patients

By Jason Powell


It's difficult to watch a loved one struggle with dementia, whether it is Alzheimer's or some other form of the disease. As these individuals begin to lose their memories, and the ability to function effectively, many become agitated, stressed, and angry. The internet is full of suggested activities that provide soothing sensory therapy for dementia patients.

Sometimes the simplest activities, the ones you enjoy playing with very little children, can create hours of pleasure for those with Alzheimer's. You do not have to spend much money putting them together. Most of the items needed you will find in your kitchen drawers or garage. What you can't find you can pick up for a few dollars. For one game all you need is a plastic bag, water beads, and small objects for the person to try and identify.

You could create scented cards with some cardboard, fresh herbs, spices, flowers, perfumes, or anything else that has an odor associated with it. As your loved one is guessing what the smell is, you might ask if it reminds her of anything, or even suggest something it reminds you of. This might trigger a good memory for both of you.

Finger painting is a great way for Alzheimer's patients to express themselves and increase their dexterity a little as the same time. You can purchase finger paints for a few dollars in the arts and crafts section of a big box store or make your own. If you decide to make the paint yourself, you will need cornstarch, food coloring, gelatin, and some water.

Coin sorting is an activity that an older one might like. This works especially well if you, or other family members, routinely dump loose change into a jar and let it collect. Not only will it give the person something engaging to do, if you approach it correctly it will also give her a sense of purpose. You can place some glass bowls around the coin jar and let the loved one sort the change into the corresponding bowls.

You can create a loop board with just a piece of wood, some screw eyes, and cord. You can paint the board and decorate it with objects to create a more complicated game, if that's appropriate. You might have to help the loved one thread the cord through the eyes to get from one end of the board to the other or to create a more intricate design.

Popping bubble wrap is something that fascinates a lot of perfectly healthy adults. You might be surprised at how engrossed an Alzheimer's patient can get just sitting and popping the plastic bubbles. If you don't have any of these packing supplies on hand, they can be purchased very affordable at office supply and big box stores.

Being a caregiver for someone with any form of dementia is challenging. It's important to find ways to ease the stress, anxiety, and anger these individuals often feel. Sensory games and activities are wonderful ways to create a diversion, help them relax, and even trigger a good memory or two.




About the Author:



Aucun commentaire:

Enregistrer un commentaire