Memory loss is a challenging condition to be in, it not only impacts the life of the individual with dementia but also the entire family.
Since dementia stages can vary from moderate to being severe hence it is important for caregivers to understand the health, medical, emotional and social needs of elderly people with dementia.
Keeping someone with dementia busy and engaged is not an easy task, infact it becomes more difficult as dementia progresses.
The carer as well as the elderly can reduce the stress associated with dementia care by engaging in stimulating activities.
In order to keep an elder with dementia actively involved it is critical that caregivers understand the most important aspect i.e. what is it that people with dementia enjoy doing most.
The attached guide “Activities – A guide for carers of people with Dementia” (2003) written by Debbie Kingis for Alzheimer’s Scotland is a well drafted and concise document for carers who look after someone who has moderate to severe dementia and needs help with planning daily activities.
Why are activities so important?
Participating in activities can help to prevent frustration, boredom and challenging behaviours among older people with dementia.
Benefits of positive activities are:
- Helps elders maintain independence in and around the house.
- Helps maintain motor skills and past experiences.
- Helps improve self-esteem and confidence.
- Helps improve the quality of life for the person with dementia and their caregivers.
- Helps the individual to express his or her feelings, through various activities like art, music, singing and dancing.
- Helps bond with caregivers which can bring happiness and involvement.
- Helps to promote social contact through social activities and outings which can keep both the caregiver and the senior to be in touch with family and friends.
The larger point of concern is, as a country why do we have limited access to training material and guidelines on dementia care?
Care and wellness of elders with dementia should be a national responsibility. Since dementia does not differentiate between the rich and poor, hence it should not be overlooked or ignored anymore.
The document can be downloaded here (Activities – a guide for carers of people with dementia) or can be viewed below