Seniors with cognitive and memory problems need to stay active and engaged. Aging adults who reside in memory care facilities are encouraged to participate in activities that help promote their well-being. Here are some engaging activities elderly individuals may enjoy in a memory care facility.
Dancing
Dancing not only enhances cardiovascular health because it is an aerobic exercise, but it also helps enhance cognitive function and memory. It is a mentally stimulating activity that promotes balance, coordination, flexibility, and mobility. Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia may act out with aggressive behavior when they are in pain. Dancing helps dampen system inflammation and may help relieve pain in those suffering from degenerative joint disease. Learning new dances helps improve recall ability and may help prevent depression, which is not uncommon in seniors with diminished cognitive function.
Arts and Crafts
The staff at memory care facilities also encourage seniors to participate in arts and crafts projects. These projects help boost confidence and self-esteem levels, promote hand-eye coordination, and promote sensory stimulation. Arts and craft projects also encourage creativity, while helping those with cognitive decline regain a sense of purpose.
Examples of arts and crafts projects your senior may participate in include painting, ceramics, jewelry making, knitting, crocheting, and drawing. Memory care residents are closely monitored while engaged in arts and craft projects to make sure they stay safe with beading tools, scissors, glues, and paints.
To learn more about senior care, call The Regency Memory Care Club.