Engaging Activities for People Living with Dementia

Living with dementia can be a challenging and confusing experience, but that doesn’t mean that life has to be boring or unfulfilling!

There are plenty of activities that people with dementia can enjoy! So, if you’re looking for ways to keep your loved one with dementia active, engaged, and entertained, here are some ideas that are sure to put a smile on their face!

Gardening

Gardening is a great activity for people with dementia because it involves using their hands and getting some fresh air. Whether they’re planting flowers, vegetables, or herbs, they can take pride in nurturing their plants and watching them grow. Plus, gardening has been shown to have therapeutic benefits for people with dementia, as it can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve memory and cognitive function, and promote a sense of well-being. So, grab some gloves and get ready to get your hands dirty!

Arts and Crafts

Art and crafts are another wonderful activity for people with dementia. Whether they enjoy painting, drawing, sculpting, or just making things with their hands, there’s something for everyone. Not only can art and crafts help to stimulate the mind, but they can also be a great way to tap into the creative side and bring out a person’s inner artist. And if you’re feeling particularly cheeky, you can encourage them to make a homemade gift for someone special – it’s the thought that counts, right?

Music and Dance

Music and dance are fantastic ways to engage people with dementia. Not only can they help to stimulate the mind, but they can also be a lot of fun! Whether you’re listening to music, singing along, or dancing, there’s something for everyone. You can even turn up the volume and have a dance party! Music has been shown to have a therapeutic effect on people with dementia, as it can help to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote a sense of well-being. So, turn up the tunes and get ready to dance the night away!

Cooking and Baking

Cooking and baking are great activities for people with dementia, as they allow them to engage their senses and bring out their inner chef. Whether they’re making a favorite recipe or trying something new, they can take pride in the food they prepare and enjoy the delicious results. Plus, cooking and baking can be a great way to bond with others, as they can share the food they’ve made and enjoy a meal together. So, fire up the oven and let the baking begin!

Reading and Writing

Reading and writing are wonderful activities for people with dementia, as they can help to stimulate the mind and improve cognitive function. Whether they’re reading a novel, writing a letter, or working on a puzzle, there’s something for everyone. Plus, reading and writing can be a great way to tap into the imagination and explore new worlds. So, grab a book, find a quiet spot, and get lost in a good story!

Exercise and Physical Activity

Exercise and physical activities are important for people with dementia, as they can help to improve physical and mental health. Whether they’re going for a walk, doing some stretching, or playing a game of catch, there’s something for everyone. Exercise has been shown to have therapeutic benefits for people with dementia, as it can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and promote a sense of well-being. So, lace up their shoes and get moving!

It’s important to remember that the activities chosen should be tailored to the person’s interests, abilities, and level of dementia. Providing a supportive and encouraging environment can help the person feel confident and engaged.

Click here for a list of easy card games, perfect for those in the earlier stages of dementia.

Click here to learn more about why people with dementia have changes in their behaviour.