10 Engaging Activities for Adults with Dementia
Supporting adults with dementia through thoughtful activities can enhance well-being and foster connection. Whether you’re a caregiver, family member, or friend, there are many enriching things to do with people with dementia that offer comfort, joy, and engagement.
1. Music and Sing-Alongs
Music often sparks memories, making it one of the most rewarding activities for adults with dementia. Singing together helps boost mood and encourages interaction.
2. Arts and Crafts
Creative projects like painting or knitting allow for relaxation and sensory engagement. Tailor the craft to suit abilities, offering simple yet satisfying activities for adults with dementia.
3. Gardening Activities
Gardening, whether tending to flowers or potting herbs indoors, provides sensory stimulation through touch, sight, and smell. It’s a comforting thing to do with people with dementia, creating a calming atmosphere.
4. Baking Familiar Recipes
Preparing simple recipes, such as biscuits or scones, is ideal for adults with dementia. Familiar tasks like stirring and decorating evoke positive memories and stimulate appetite.
5. Memory Games and Puzzles
Memory-focused activities for adults with dementia, like puzzles or reminiscing games, help exercise cognitive functions. Consider sorting through family photos or creating a memory box for a personal touch.
6. Pet Therapy
Animal interactions are calming and beneficial. Many adults with dementia respond positively to pet therapy, which promotes relaxation and can reduce anxiety.
7. Gentle Movement
Activities like chair yoga, stretching, or light dancing are safe ways for adults with dementia to move comfortably, aiding both physical health and mental relaxation.
8. Sensory Experiences
Offer sensory activities for adults with dementia, like handling textured objects or smelling aromatic oils, to create calming effects. These things to do with people with dementia are especially beneficial in advanced stages.
9. Storytelling and Reminiscence
Reading short stories, sharing family memories, or looking at photo albums can evoke comforting memories and foster connection.
10. Simple Games and Social Time
Games like Bingo or Snap provide social interaction, laughter, and joy. Choose simple games that adults with dementia can enjoy at their own pace.
Activities for adults with dementia offer a valuable opportunity to connect and create memorable, comforting experiences. By focusing on personalised things to do with people with dementia, caregivers can enhance quality of life in meaningful ways.
