Activities With Dementia

Dementia is a condition that affects memory, language, judgment and behavior. The most common types of dementia in the United States are Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. Many other types exist, including Parkinson's disease, HIV dementia, Huntington's disease, a type brought on by head trauma and other types. It occurs more often in the elderly but can begin much earlier in life. Activities of 15 minutes to an hour can bring meaning and enjoyment to the life of the dementia patient.

Pet Care

The person with dementia may benefit from spending time with a docile animal, such as a cat or dog. If possible, she can assist with the feeding, grooming and care of the animal. Even the most demented person can usually pet an animal. Interaction with a pet provides unconditional love, a sense of purpose and friendship.

Preparation of Bird Food

Dementia patients may enjoy preparing a cord or string of bird food, such as breakfast cereal with a hole for a string to pass through. A 3- to 6-foot cord or string of food can be made and placed outside in an area that can be viewed by the patient. He can enjoy making the food and then watching the birds consume it. If feasible, two or more kinds of cereal can be placed on the cord or string in an alternating fashion. This activity gives a sense of purpose and something to look forward to as the birds congregate to eat the food.

Exercise to Music

The Alzheimer's Disease Resource Agency of Alaska recommends guiding a dementia patient with exercising to music. This can involve basic moving activities such as kicking the feet out in an alternating fashion or stretches such as reaching for the sky. A patient confined to a chair can kick a large ball or perform arm stretches. Exercising and exposure to music are both healthy for the person with dementia.

Sing to Music

Singing is an activity loved by all ages. Singing songs that were popular during the period of time the person was in his teens or 20s is ideal. If music is provided, it is important to keep the volume to a level that the patient can easily hear but not feel overstimulated. Singing and clapping to the music is usually fun and therapeutic to the individual. It may stir good memories and give a sense of achievement as the words to the songs are remembered.

Fold Laundry

The Georgia Chapter of the Alzheimer's Organization explains that, like everyone, dementia patients feel more life satisfaction when they are able to be productive. Folding laundry such as towels and washcloths can allow this feeling of productivity and achievement. Similar household tasks such as dusting or wiping a table with a wet towel may also be rewarding.