Alzheimer's disease is a form of dementia characterized by loss of memory and mental acuity. Activity care therapists who work with the Alzheimer's Association identify three types of activities important to persons with Alzheimer's. These are self-care activities, productivity activities and leisure activities. Planning activities that promote these three needs can help improve the lives of your Alzheimer's patients.
Self Care
Activities centered on self care help build a patient's self-esteem and reinforce the ability to perform day-to-day tasks. Self-care activities include bathing, grooming, dressing, eating and other hygiene needs. These are both care and teaching moments. Try to make these activities pleasant for patients by making a game of them or by chatting and socializing while you assist them with their needs.
Productive
Productive activities may seem like teaching and chores, but they can also be opportunities for fun and socialization. According to professional activities director Gina Salazar, residents enjoy feeling helpful. For example, asking a resident to help you fold laundry is both a self-care activity and a chance to talk to the resident and hear his life stories. You can also use this time to sing songs, tell jokes or ask simple riddles. Gardening, dusting, preparing a meal or snack or making the bed are all examples of productive activities.
Leisure
According to Salazar, leisure activities shouldn't last longer than 15 minutes to prevent the patient from getting bored or frustrated. Television and music are popular leisure activities. Going for walks, knitting, painting, making crafts and playing board games are also good leisure activities. According to gerontology expert and registered nurse clinical specialist Catherine Harris, select leisure activities after talking to the patients about their hobbies and interests. Seasonal leisure activities can also emphasize a sense of time and space. Try Easter egg hunts, tree decorating and fall leaf walks. Play sports and outdoor games as much as the health of your patients will allow.
