5 Memory Loss Support Activities to Help with Dementia

Memory loss is one of the most common symptoms associated with dementia, and over time, it can worsen for seniors, making daily life more challenging. There are tasks and projects seniors can take up to boost their memory and strengthen other intellectual functions. Here are several purposeful activities that provide support for older adults with dementia who have memory loss. 

1. Playing Board Games

When choosing memory loss support activities for an aging loved one with dementia, begin with games or tasks your loved one is familiar with, such as board games. Trying to learn new activities could confuse your loved one and increase the risk of combative behavior. However, playing familiar board games could trigger memories and make the game more personal. Allow your parent to go at his or her own pace when playing games, and never interrupt when your loved one is discussing a memory associated with the activity. 

Aging adults who need help managing mental and physical health issues can benefit from the assistance of highly trained professional caregivers. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of in-home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

2. Gardening

Stress can cause memory loss and other dementia symptoms to accelerate and lead to other chronic changes. However, gardening can provide a creative, stress-free space that alleviates the mental discomfort associated with dementia. In some instances, the activity may help your loved one regain lost skills and increase his or her attention span. Assisting with gardening activities could result in better orientation to time and place and increase your loved one’s brain volume. 

3. Dancing

Dancing is a physical activity that can have positive effects on the hippocampus region of the brain. This area generally controls learning, balance, and memory. Adding dancing to the weekly routine can slow down brain aging and increase cognitive function. Promote activities like dancing because the physical movements can maximize brain function, regardless of the stage of dementia or the progression of memory loss. 

If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, medication reminders, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care services Fremont families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

4. Performing Yoga

Yoga can increase brain functioning in seniors with dementia and reduce various issues associated with the condition, such as depression and poor memory. The chanting, breathing techniques, movements, and other aspects of yoga can strengthen verbal and visual skills. While practicing yoga, your loved one will need to use his or her focusing abilities, which could increase awareness. Taking up yoga can help seniors with various memory-related tasks, such as remembering the names and faces of familiar people. 

5. Singing

Musical memories are often preserved even as dementia progresses because specific areas of the brain go relatively undamaged. Whether your loved one sings alone or joins the family in a sing-along activity, it could boost the levels of acetylcholine—a compound that functions as a neurotransmitter—throughout the body. Singing can also enhance mood and lower the risk of depression. 

Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Fremont families can rely on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life. Call one of our Care Managers today to learn about our customized in-home care plans.