It’s a strange time in history right now thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. For those who are with our elderly loved ones – the most vulnerable to serious complications from the virus – it can feel overwhelming, unsettling, and worrisome.
Here are some activity ideas you may be able to do together to keep them cognitively stimulated and active. I have put these suggestions together knowing that some of you will have access to different resources. Please also bear in mind that there is no right fit for these kind of activities so they will probably need to be modified to suit your needs and the level of comprehension that your loved one has.
Doing activities and giving your days some structure could prove calming for both you and the person you are caring for.
A few tips…
If the person you are caring for is reluctant, gently encourage them with some phrases like “Could you please help me with this” or “I know you are really good at this”.
– Break down the activity and give one at a time instructions.
– Set the activity out ready.
– Sit with the person and do it together to start with.
– Be aware that there may be things that they have been able to do before but they are not able to do today so adapt as you go along.
And remember our Alzheimers Northland Community Advisors are available at the end of the phone. Please do call, we want to be able to help, support and offer advice, our office has closed but our team are working from their homes and you calls will be forwarded. We would love to hear your ideas too!
Aleisha, Diversional Therapist, Alzheimers Northland