No one wants to end up with a debilitating disease, particularly one like Alzheimer’s. Are there are steps that can be taken to slow the disease’s progression?
Experts say the main thing people can do to prevent or slow down Alzheimer’s disease is to stimulate their brain.
Whether a person is in a care facility or receiving home care services, brain stimulation activities can and should be done on a regular basis.
Why Brain Stimulation Is Vital in Alzheimer’s Patients
Alzheimer’s disease frustrates doctors and those in the home care services industry to no end. There is currently no cure. And the medications currently on the market aren’t doing much to halt disease progression.
That is why brain stimulation is one of the top recommendations of those in the healthcare industry. So far, this seems to be the only thing that has provided any hope of preventing or slowing the disease.
According to Time magazine, researchers have found that stimulating brain activities might not halt the actual disease, but it can slow down the appearance of symptoms. In other words, those with the disease won’t seem as forgetful or experience forgetfulness as frequently.
10 Stimulating Activities for Alzheimer’s Patients and Their Caretakers
We highly recommend engaging in stimulating activities on a regular basis. Daily mental exercise can help us save our brain cells and stay mentally sharp.
These activities can be done just about anywhere. So, if you or your loved one is receiving adult day care or home care services – these activities can still be done.
1. Sing or Play Music
The goal here is to bring back memories. Lyrics and melodies can affect the memory part of the brain tremendously.
2. Work on Puzzles
We love puzzles because they’re like exercise for the brain. A person has to exercise their problem solving ability, as well as making sense of the shapes to complete the picture in front of them.
3. Read the Newspaper Together
This may not seem like a big deal, but reading is also a form of mental exercise. Reading about current events can help stimulate both memories and emotions as well.
4. Do Activities Around the House
Even someone who isn’t very strong physically can play a part in household chores. Helping with making lemonade or cookies, folding laundry, or planting some flowers gives a person a sense of accomplishment.
5. Do Something Artistic
Taking up an artistic hobby can work parts of the brain that might not have been utilized frequently in the past. Artistic hobbies can include drawing, painting, sculpting, even coloring in a coloring book.
6. Engage in a Conversation
Many Alzheimer’s patients remember their past better than their present. Engage those memories by asking about their life as a youngster.
7. Learn a Language
This doesn’t need to be complicated. Learn a few phrases together in a different language. Practice together daily. And make sure to have fun with it!
8. Sorting Objects
Whether they’re pictures, different shaped/colored blocks, pillows, or books – sorting can help give the brain a workout. It’s similar to working on a jigsaw puzzle. We’ve also found that being able to provide help with organizing in this manner helps a loved one feel like they’re being useful.
9. Play Word and Number Puzzles
Crossword puzzles, word searches, Sudoku, and other types of games help keep the brain focused.
10. Make a Scrapbook
A scrapbook project can work multiple parts of the brain. It’s a creative project, it’s a sorting/organizational project, and the pictures can help stimulate the person’s memory as well.
Keep Your Loved One Mentally and Physically Healthy with Fun Activities
Stimulating the brain with fun and interesting activities will keep the brain healthy for a longer period. The same can be said of the body – the more physically active a person is, the longer they’ll be strong and healthy.
We urge families make their physical and mental health a priority. Go on walks, ride your bike, or take a hike in the fresh air. Play fun, mentally stimulating games together. And always encourage each other to do all in your power to stay healthy.
Whether you or your loved one is receiving home care services or is in a senior daycare facility, remember – with a little bit of daily effort, there is hope that full cognitive abilities may be engaged.
Does your loved one need a helping hand? Please contact us right away to see how we can help.
