When a loved one has dementia, your first instinct will likely be to try and find a way to slow down the disease’s progression.
While there is no way to cure dementia at this time, you can make a difference for your loved one’s cognitive health and overall wellbeing.
Below are some simple ways you can stimulate your loved one’s brain health and improve their quality of life with dementia.
- Socialize. You may be aware that staying social can help reduce the risk of developing dementia. But did you know it can also help patients who already have this disease? The Alzheimer’s Society writes, “Research presented at Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) found that ten minutes of social interaction a day helps improve wellbeing for people with dementia in care homes.” Try to be there in person for your loved one when you can. But even if you cannot, try to at least socialize with them electronically while they are able to do that. Even a few minutes a day of social interaction can help. So, do not avoid socializing just because you are worried you do not have enough time to dedicate. Every little bit counts.
- Play games. Games that exercise the brain can help with dementia. Try playing board games, crossword puzzles, word games, number games, memory games and more with your loved one. You can modify games to make them easier if necessary.
- Do physical activities. It is easy to overlook, but physical sports involve a strong cognitive component. So, participating in them can be helpful for brain health. Look for sports your loved one can safely participate in (even something as simple as bowling can be a good choice, and does not require moving around too much).
- Learn new things. Finally, another great way to keep the brain sharp is to keep stretching it in new directions by learning new things. This could be new skills, or simply new knowledge. You can help facilitate this learning for your loved one by participating in it with them. Attend a class with them, or take them to a museum, or try a new hobby with them. Learning new things is often less intimidating when you do it with someone else. Plus, you can help guide them forward through their symptoms.
Learn How Golden Rule Hospice Can Help
Being there for your loved one through socializing and shared activities is a great way to help maintain their cognitive health while you also provide crucial emotional support.
At Golden Rule Hospice, we care for many patients with dementia, and have staff and volunteers who can help provide social and cognitive support along with other services to increase comfort and maintain autonomy.
To learn more about our services, please give us a call at (470) 395-6567. We offer end-of-life care to patients with dementia and other health conditions throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area.
