For someone who has been diagnosed with dementia, hobbies take on a particular importance. Doing something they used to do before their diagnosis can not only provide enjoyment while the disease progresses, the hobby itself takes on a whole new meaning. Granted, their changing abilities may cause the need for adapting their beloved hobby, but their life satisfaction can increase if they continue to pursue it.
If you have a loved one who has been diagnosed with dementia, the following information can help you learn about how to assist them in the enjoyment of the hobbies they once loved. Pursuing a new or old hobby can help your loved one remain as cognitive as possible, for as long as possible.
Make The Hobby Fun While Helping Them
You’ll need to provide guidance and assist your loved one with their hobbies if they are to continue to enjoy them. You’ll be able to provide the right time, place, and activity with these three suggestions:
- Upon the success of the project, a definite impact will be delivered by the time of day during which you choose to do the activity. “Sundowning” occurs toward the end of the day, so hobbies should be pursued during earlier hours.
- If there is a time of day, place, etc. when/where restlessness and anxiousness affect your loved one, steer clear of those. The setting in which you help them with their hobby should not have too many people, too much noise, or too many distractions. Make sure there is good lighting and a clutter free work area.
- Choose calming activities. Remember, rushing isn’t necessary. While encouraging your loved one to work as independently as possible, remain patient and calm.
Adapting Hobbies
Certain hobbies and activities will be harder to pursue as your loved one’s dementia progresses. Adaptation will be needed. To reduce anxiety and agitation, but make the activity enjoyable, special focus will be needed on your part.
- Safety is a priority. After that, various other modifications may be required.
- Keep it simple. Assist your loved one when they need it, allowing them to do what they can on their own (while you supervise).
We All Need a Little Help Now and Then
Courtesy of our Memory Care plan, your loved one can lead a healthier, happy life, with as much independence as possible. We encourage Alzheimer’s, dementia, etc. residents to take part in games, movie night, hobbies, arts and crafts, dances, and much more. An active mind and body lead to a healthier individual, a more joyful way of life, and very possibly, a longer life.
Our expertly educated team of professionals knows all the ins and outs of caring for individuals with cognitive issues and will continuously provide the care your loved one requires. What’s more, with all of our on-site amenities, any and all other needs will be seen to in no uncertain terms.
If you’d like to talk about the sale or lease of one of our residences, please phone 228-206-0138. Any other questions can be directed to someone at 228-702-0142. We also have a convenient online form you can use to start a conversation.
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