ACTIVITIES
While there is currently no cure for dementia, engaging in certain activities can help slow down its progression and improve the overall well-being of individuals with dementia. When planning day care activities for individuals with dementia, it's important to consider their abilities, interests, and stage of dementia. Here are some activities that have shown to be beneficial:
Reminiscence activities
Engage individuals in conversations and activities that encourage reminiscing about past experiences. Look at old photographs, listen to familiar music, or encourage storytelling.
Arts and crafts
Offer simple arts and crafts projects that allow for creativity and self-expression. Activities like painting, colouring, collage-making, or sensory art with different textures can be enjoyable.
Music therapy
Incorporate music into the day care activities. Play familiar songs, sing along, or organize interactive music sessions where individuals can play simple instruments or engage in rhythmic activities.
Gentle exercises
Conduct chair exercises or gentle movements to promote physical activity and mobility. This can include stretching, seated yoga, or guided movements to music.
Sensory stimulation
Provide sensory experiences that engage different senses. Offer tactile objects like soft fabrics or textured materials to touch, scented items for smelling, or sensory bins with materials like sand or rice for exploration.
Gardening
Encourage individuals to participate in simple gardening tasks like planting flowers or herbs in pots. This can provide a sense of purpose, promote relaxation, and connect with nature.
Pet therapy
Arrange visits from therapy animals or organize activities involving gentle interaction with friendly and trained animals. This can provide comfort, companionship, and a source of joy for individuals with dementia.
Brain games and puzzles
Offer puzzles, simple games, and activities that stimulate cognitive function. This can include matching games, word searches, puzzles with large pieces, or memory games.
Social activities
Plan activities that promote social interaction and engagement. This can involve group discussions, storytelling circles, group exercises, or board games adapted to suit the abilities of the participants.
Aromatherapy
Utilize calming scents and essential oils to create a soothing environment. Lavender, citrus, or mint scents can help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Remember, it's essential to adapt activities to the individual's abilities, interests, and stage of dementia. Additionally, provide a calm and supportive environment, allowing flexibility and individualized attention. Observing the responses and preferences of the participants can guide you in selecting appropriate activities and making adjustments as needed.
PROGRESSION
Dementia is a progressive condition that affects cognitive function, memory, and behaviour. The progression of dementia varies from person to person and depends on the underlying cause of the condition. However, there are some general stages and patterns that can be observed. It's important to note that not all individuals with dementia will experience every stage, and the timeline can vary.
1. Early Stage: In the early stage of dementia, individuals may experience mild cognitive changes that could be attributed to normal aging or stress. They may have occasional memory lapses, difficulty finding words, or challenges with concentration. These changes may not be immediately noticeable to others.
2. Mild Stage: As dementia progresses, symptoms become more noticeable. Individuals may have difficulty with tasks that require planning or organization. They may forget recent events, have trouble remembering names or words, and experience increased confusion in unfamiliar environments. They may also exhibit mood swings or changes in personality.
3. Moderate Stage: In the moderate stage, cognitive decline becomes more pronounced. Memory loss worsens, and individuals may have trouble recognizing family members or friends. They may struggle with tasks of daily living, such as dressing or bathing, and may require assistance or supervision. Communication becomes more challenging, and behavioural symptoms like agitation or aggression may emerge.
4. Severe Stage: In the severe stage of dementia, individuals require extensive assistance and may be unable to communicate coherently. Memory and cognitive function continue to decline, and individuals may lose the ability to recognize even close family members. They may experience significant physical decline, have difficulty swallowing, and become more susceptible to infections. Full-time care and support are typically necessary at this stage.
It's important to note that the progression of dementia can be influenced by various factors, including the type of dementia, overall health, and individual circumstances. If you or someone you know is concerned about dementia, it is recommended to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.
COMMUNICATION
Communicating effectively with people with dementia requires patience, understanding, and adaptability. Here are some tips to improve communication:
Maintain a Calm and Respectful Demeanor: Approach the person with a calm and friendly attitude. Use a warm and gentle tone of voice, maintaining a relaxed body language. Show respect and treat them with dignity throughout the conversation.
Simplify Language and Speak Clearly: Use simple and concise sentences, speaking slowly and clearly. Avoid using complex or abstract concepts. Break down instructions or questions into smaller, understandable parts. Give the person enough time to process and respond.
Use Non-Verbal Communication: Non-verbal cues can be powerful in communication. Maintain eye contact, smile, and use gestures or facial expressions to convey your message. Pay attention to the person's non-verbal cues as well, as they might provide important clues about their needs or emotions.
Be Patient and Allow Time: People with dementia may require more time to process information and formulate a response. Avoid rushing or interrupting them. Be patient and give them ample time to express themselves. If needed, ask questions in different ways or repeat important information.
Avoid Correcting or Arguing: It's common for people with dementia to have memory lapses or confusion. Instead of correcting or arguing with them, focus on understanding their feelings and emotions. Validate their experiences and emotions, offering reassurance and support.
Use Visual Aids and Props: Visual aids, such as photographs, drawings, or written notes, can assist in communication. They can help trigger memories or facilitate understanding. Using props or gestures can also aid in conveying messages or instructions.
Be Attentive to Body Language and Emotions: Pay attention to the person's body language and emotions. They might communicate through facial expressions, gestures, or changes in tone of voice. Respond empathetically and adjust your approach accordingly.
Create a Quiet and Supportive Environment: Minimize distractions and noise in the surroundings to help the person focus on the conversation. Choose a calm and comfortable setting where they feel safe and at ease.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Offer praise, positive feedback, and encouragement during conversations. Celebrate small successes and achievements to boost their confidence and self-esteem.
Involve and Engage: Encourage participation and engagement by asking open-ended questions or offering choices. Listen actively and show genuine interest in their responses. Maintain a conversational flow by building on their ideas. Restrict choices to either / or - Soup or sandwich
Remember that each person with dementia is unique, and communication strategies may need to be tailored to their specific needs and abilities. Patience, empathy, and flexibility are key to fostering effective communication and meaningful connections. Remember is just short term memory they loose and the person themselves are still whole and there albeit confused