Dementia Friendly Activities In A Care Home

What is Dementia Care?

Dementia is a chronic neurological condition that impairs mental functions such as speech, behaviour and memory. Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be daunting, but individuals can continue to live fulfilling lives with 24-hour care and support in a dedicated care home. Each resident receives a personalised care plan tailored to their specific needs and interests, recognising that no two experiences with dementia are the same.

The Importance of Brain Stimulation in Dementia

Those who suffer with dementia struggle impairing memory and critical thinking, which complicates daily tasks and it impacts millions globally. While there is no cure, brain-stimulating activities can help mitigate symptoms like forgetfulness. Activities like puzzles and painting activate underutilised brain regions, potentially slowing the disease's progression.

10 Brain-Stimulating, Creative Activities for Dementia

1. Engage in Conversation - Simple conversations can help people affected with dementia recall memories. Engage directly, use a loving tone, lead the conversation and ask easy-to-answer questions.

2. Play a Musical Instrument - Music therapy through learning to play an instrument can improve listening and hearing skills by altering brain waves, essentially rewiring and healing the brain.

3. Sing & Dance to Era-Specific Music - Singing and dancing to familiar music or favourite songs, can evoke emotions and memories, utilising musical aptitude, one of the last remaining cognitive abilities in dementia patients.

4. Read a Book - Depending on the stage of the person living with dementia, reading can be beneficial. Encourage patients to read or read to them to stimulate their minds.

5. Look at Old Photos - Viewing old photos can stimulate memory and brain activity, helping people with dementia regain a sense of personal identity through visual aids from their lives.

6. Garden - Gardening increases physical activity and provides enjoyment. Group gardening projects can foster a sense of community and common purpose.

7. Cook or Bake - Cooking or baking engages multiple senses, increases appetite and revives past memories, encouraging continued participation in enjoyable activities.

8. Play with a Deck of Cards - Sorting a deck of cards by colour, number or suit can stimulate intellectual abilities and improve alertness in dementia patients.

9. Doll Therapy - Introducing a doll can provide a sense of purpose and responsibility, potentially bringing back memories of children, grandchildren or younger siblings.

10. Go on Walks - Walking provides fresh air and physical activity. It's a safe way to manage the tendency of people with dementia wandering.

Dementia Care in Fife at Dalgety Bay

Dalgety Bay Care Home offers exceptional dementia care to the Fife community. Our skilled healthcare professionals deliver comprehensive care tailored to all dementia levels, ensuring residents lead fulfilling lives through a variety of activities and dedicated support. Residents enjoy both indoor and outdoor freedom, fostering independence and security.

Within our luxury dementia care home, our staff undergo extensive training to manage dementia's complexities, focusing on understanding, awareness and meaningful connections. We aim to enhance daily experiences, providing an enriching lifestyle with dignity and respect. Our dementia care unit is designed to reduce anxiety and confusion, offering dementia-friendly activities that promote mental wellbeing, emotional wellbeing and physical wellbeing.