Memory Care Activities for Remedying Memory Loss – How & Why They Work
Memory loss can be a devastating effect of old age, especially among seniors suffering from dementia. It can contribute to other physical and mental challenges. Fortunately, it is possible to slow down memory loss by getting the patient to engage in memory care activities. Here is an overview of their importance.
What are Memory Care Activities?
Memory care is a holistic solution for seniors struggling with memory loss caused by dementia. Memory care activities are conducted in a safe and personalized environment. Usually a 24-hour senior facility with a robust community. The environment improves the patients' overall quality of life, including their memory retention capacity.
These activities are based on the patient's personality – essentially something the patient likes doing. Common examples include:
- Gardening
- Arts and crafts
- Cooking or baking
- Cleaning and routine household chores
- Organizational tasks such as sorting and packing
- Reading their favorite books (or reading in general)
- Listening to their favorite music
- Watching their favorite videos
- Playing puzzles and board games
Memory care activities are usually administered in small groups in a social setting. They are conducted for varying periods. Two weekly sessions each spanning about 45 minutes are efficient.
Importance & Benefits of Memory Care Activities
Memory care activities are designed to counter the effects of memory loss induced by conditions such as dementia. Here is an overview of some of their important benefits and how they work:
- Stirring Past Memories
Memory care activities are based on activities that the patients enjoyed earlier in their lives, as explained. These activities are enjoyable to the patients; they stimulate their brains, including the parts responsible for memory retention. The patients feel at home when engaging in these activities, making it easy to remember some of their most intimate memories.
- Slowing Cognitive Decline
Memory loss from dementia only gets worse over time as the disease causes more damage to the brain. However, ideal memory care activities can help slow this process down.
These activities are enjoyable and help stimulate the brain in aspects such as concentration and general thinking. An active mind is less susceptible to the damaging effects of Alzheimer's disease than an idle one. Consequently, engaging in these activities can slow down memory loss considerably and even halt it entirely.
Stimulating activities also prompt the nerve cells to relay messages back and forth, keeping them active and healthy. Additionally, studies show that some activities can stimulate and support the growth of new nerve cells.
- Calming the Mind
Memory loss caused by dementia causes a range of mental problems, including depression and anxiety. Consequently, patients tend to isolate themselves in confusion, worsening the problem.
Consequently, the patients experience a positive improvement in their moods, eliminating negative feelings such as stress and depression.
Final Thoughts
Memory care activities can help your seniors recall their most cherished memories. They are also enjoyable and can help them make new happy memories. We offer robust memory care activities personalized to our residents' personalities and preferences. Get in touch today to learn more about how we can help your loved ones.