Thousands of people all across the United States struggle with memory loss problems. As is typical with dementia, these problems spill over to their loved ones who have to ensure that their family members or loved ones get to enjoy a higher quality of life. Indeed memory loss often creates social, financial, and legal problems as patients may not be able to make sound decisions in any of these areas. For example, patients with dementia are often prone to be swindled due to their inability to make sound financial decisions. For this reason, any intervention that helps to reduce the effects of dementia is welcome. In this article, we have put together a number of programs for dementia that can alleviate the worst effects of this condition.
Arts & Crafts
Arts and crafts programs are great for people suffering from dementia because it is thought that creativity helps to alleviate some of the effects of the conditions. These programs not only stimulate memory but also help with issues such as balance, dexterity and so much more. For example, it is thought that painting is based on memories and many people who get into an arts and crafts program that involves painting will see some improvements in their neuron’s ability to communicate with each other. The fact that these programs are also typically intense and hands-on means that your loved one doesn’t get bored or stressed.
Outings
While outings may sound rather banal, they are in fact immensely helpful in alleviating the effects of dementia. Outings create the opportunity for your loved ones to learn new skills and thus keep their minds active. This in turn helps the brain to stay active and may even lead to improved memory and cognitive functions. Depending on what kind of outings are planned, the chance to get some fresh air and physical exercise is thought to have health benefits as well.
Music
Music is great for the soul and also offers amazing benefits to people suffering from dementia. Music is known to trigger emotions and this element alone can help people with dementia see an improvement in their condition. In addition to the emotional aspects of music, singing or playing an instrument is fun and relaxing. This in turn helps to stave off problems such as stress which can make dementia worse. Depending on the specifics of the program, playing musical instruments can benefit your loved ones by helping them improve eye-hand coordination. It can also help them develop healthier breathing techniques in case they are learning how to play a wind instrument.
Games
It has long been established that games such as chess are great with memory functions. This is because they involve thinking ahead, making strategies to beat your opponent, and so on. This means that the brain is active at all times and this eventually helps to improve neural functions. The other great thing about games is that they do not require much physical activity, which is great for loved ones who have mobility issues. They are also fairly inexpensive and can be played anywhere. Where possible, you should consider combining them with some of the things we have talked about for maximum benefit. For example, you can consider playing board games as part of the activities of an outing.
