The Importance of Staying Active for Those with Dementia

29.4.24

Hello! I'm Mitch, one of the Activities Coordinators here at Alexander House Care Home in Exeter. I've always been passionate about creating meaningful experiences for older adults, and that passion grew even stronger when I began working in dementia care. While dementia can present unique challenges, I've seen firsthand the transformative power of activities tailored to individual needs and interests.

It's incredibly rewarding to witness the joy, connection, and sense of purpose that engaging activities can have on our residents, even in those moments where communication or memories may be dimmed.

Today, I want to share some insights about activities for those with dementia in care homes, and how we approach this at Alexander House. Our philosophy centers around person-centered care - This means we get to know each resident as an individual, understanding their life story, their interests, and their preferences.

For instance, if a resident was a keen gardener, we might involve them in planting herbs for our kitchen garden. This not only provides a familiar and stimulating activity, but it also offers a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Perhaps another resident enjoyed ballroom dancing in their youth. We might incorporate music and movement sessions when planning activities that stir up those positive memories, even if formal dancing is no longer possible.

The key is to be creative and adaptable. Activities are modified to accommodate different levels of cognitive and physical abilities. We strive to create a sense of success and accomplishment, regardless of a resident's limitations. This can be as simple as offering different textures and materials for a tactile art session, or breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

Ultimately, our goal is to create a safe and supportive space where residents feel encouraged to participate, regardless of their stage of dementia.

Understanding Dementia and Its Impact

Dementia is a general term for a decline in cognitive function that affects a person's daily life. There are many different types of dementia, each with its own set of symptoms. Alzheimer's disease is the most common, but vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia are also relatively common.

The way dementia affects a person can vary greatly too. Some may experience difficulties with short-term memory, while others may struggle with language or problem-solving. Spatial awareness can be compromised, and some people with dementia may exhibit personality changes or mood swings.

As a care home specialising in dementia care in Exeter, we understand that each person's experience is unique. There's no single right way to approach activities for every person with dementia. Here at Alexander House, it all starts with getting to know each of our residents as individuals, taking the time to learn about their life stories, their passions, and their preferences.

This allows us to create a person-centered activity plan that taps into their unique strengths and abilities, ensuring connection, accomplishment, and most importantly joy!

These personalised activities aren't just fun; they enforce a sense of identity and purpose, reminding residents of their skills and the positive impact they've had on the world.

Adapting to Abilities: Celebrating Success at Every Stage

Dementia may change a person's abilities, but it doesn't erase their want to belong, to participate and contribute. We design activities that can be adapted to meet a wide range of cognitive and physical needs. A painting session might offer simple watercolor sets for some, while others might work with textured materials or finger paints. A baking activity could involve pre-measured ingredients for those who need more support, or focus on the delightful sensory experience of kneading dough.

The key is to ensure everyone feels successful and experiences the joy of the process, building self-confidence and positive interaction.

The Power of the Familiar: Reconnecting with the Past

Familiar objects, sounds, and experiences can be incredibly powerful for those living with dementia. Playing music from a resident's youth might spark recognition and bring a smile, even when words fail. Using tools from a former carpenter's workshop for a simple craft project can awaken muscle memory and a sense of competence.

Sharing treasured family photos or discussing a resident's childhood stomping ground can ignite precious memories and provide opportunities for storytelling and connection. These familiar connections offer comfort, reduce stress and anxiety, and provide a bridge between the past and the present, reminding residents with dementia that they are loved and their life story matters.

Dementia can lead to a sense of disconnection from the world and loved ones. Group activities, whether it's a lively sing-along or a focused craft project, create opportunities for social interaction and shared experiences. Even residents with limited verbal or cognitive abilities, can find connection through shared laughter, listening to music together, or simply belonging in a group.

These moments of shared enjoyment break down the barriers of isolation and mean a lot to the community within our home.

Boosting Mood and Reducing Agitation

Participating in meaningful activities can have a profoundly positive impact on cognitive health and the mood of those with dementia. Engaging in enjoyable tasks provides a sense of accomplishment, combats boredom, and promotes a feeling of wellbeing.

Activities can also redirect restless energy, helping calm anxiety and reduce agitation, which are common symptoms of dementia. Improved mood can lead to better sleep patterns, further supporting overall health.

As dementia progresses, individuals may feel a loss of purpose, as everyday tasks become more challenging. Having activities to participate in gives residents something to look forward to and a way to contribute. Whether it's helping to set the table for dinner, joining a team member in the folding of laundry, or tending to our herb garden, these purposeful tasks instill a sense of value and remind residents that they are still needed and appreciated.

Activities designed with the right level of support allow those with dementia to experience success and tap into their remaining abilities. For a former carpenter, using tools to assemble a simple birdhouse can re-engage those skills and bring a sense of satisfaction. For someone who always loved to bake, helping a loved one with simple tasks brings back positive memories and feelings of competence.

Focusing on what you CAN do builds confidence, self-esteem, and provides opportunities for joyful moments amidst the challenges of dementia.

Beyond Just Keeping Busy

Our activities team isn't just about filling a calendar; they're dedicated to creating an atmosphere of warmth, belonging, and genuine care. Their passion for enriching the lives of our residents shines through in every interaction. They take the time to listen, to understand individual needs, and to design activities that bring smiles, laughter, and a sense of genuine connection. Whether it's a carefully chosen song during a music therapy session or a gentle hand guiding a paintbrush, our team's empathy and creativity encourage moments of joy for residents at all stages of dementia.

This warmth isn't limited to organised activities. Our activities team recognises the importance of spontaneous moments of connection too. They might stop to share a story with a resident during a walk, pause to admire artwork together, or simply offer a reassuring smile. Their dedication to creating meaningful experiences extends throughout our care home, ensuring a true sense of community for our residents.

Dementia Care with a Difference: Experience it Yourself

If you're seeking dementia care in Exeter that understands the power of meaningful activities and compassionate support, we invite you to experience the Alexander House difference. During your visit, you won't just see a list of activities; you'll witness firsthand the warmth and personal touch our activities team brings to our care home.

Observe the smiles on residents' faces, hear the joyful laughter in the hallways, and feel the genuine sense of community within our walls.

Our commitment to providing exceptional care, coupled with a vibrant activities program, creates a truly supportive and engaging environment where those with dementia can feel understood, valued, and empowered to live their lives to the fullest.