Alzheimer's disease and dementia are progressive conditions that affect memory, behavior, and mood. As the disease progresses, it can become challenging to help memory care patients happy. However, with some effort and creativity, there are many ways to bring joy and happiness to those living with these conditions. In this article, let's go ahead and take a look at some tips to keep memory care patients happy especially those with Alzheimer's and Dementia.

Here are Some Ways to Keep Memory Care Patients Happy

Create a Safe and Comfortable Environment

Creating a safe and comfortable environment is the first step in making people with Alzheimer's or dementia happy. Make sure the home or facility is free of hazards and clutter, and that the person feels comfortable in their surroundings. Create a relaxing atmosphere by playing calming music, providing comfortable seating, and ensuring there is adequate lighting.

In addition, according to research about Impact of the Design of the Built Environment on People with Dementia: An Evidence-Based Review published on the Sage Journals website, says "with the exception of cognition, specific design interventions are beneficial to the outcomes of people with dementia".

Provide Activities That Stimulate the Mind

Providing activities that stimulate the mind is essential in keeping people with Alzheimer's or dementia engaged and happy. Activities such as puzzles, board games, and reading can help to stimulate the mind and keep the person engaged. Activities that involve reminiscing, such as looking at old photos or listening to music from their past, can also be helpful.

In fact, a study pointed out the benefits of board games. For example, the article on Playing board games, cognitive decline and dementia: a French population-based cohort study  published through the BMJ Journals website says, "a possible beneficial effect of board game playing on the risk of dementia could be mediated by less cognitive decline and less depression in elderly board game players".

Activities are an essential part of care at Braley Care Homes. An In-depth Social history is done prior to Admission, So we know how to structure a resident’s activity programming. We use strategies called “step into their reality” and “tap into residual memories,” and just plain old “fun” to assist residents through their day.

Promote Physical Activity

Physical activity is beneficial for people with Alzheimer's or dementia, as it can improve mood, increase energy levels, and promote better sleep. Simple activities such as going for a walk, gardening, or doing gentle exercises can help to improve physical well-being and happiness.

Results from a peer-reviewed scientific journal study called Effects of Physical Activity Training in Patients with Alzheimer’s Dementia: Results of a Pilot RCT Study published on the Plos One website are promising.

Provide Opportunities for Socialization

Socialization is essential for people with Alzheimer's or dementia, as it can help to reduce feelings of loneliness and depression. Providing opportunities for socialization, such as attending support groups, participating in activities with others, or inviting friends and family to visit, can help to promote happiness and well-being.

Create a Sense of Purpose

Creating a sense of purpose is essential in making people with Alzheimer's or dementia happy. Providing tasks or activities that give the person a sense of purpose can help to improve their mood and promote feelings of self-worth. Simple tasks such as folding laundry, setting the table, or watering plants can help to promote a sense of accomplishment and happiness.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Using positive reinforcement is an effective way to promote happiness in people with Alzheimer's or dementia. Positive reinforcement involves providing praise or rewards for positive behaviors, such as completing a task or remembering a name. Positive reinforcement can help to improve mood, increase motivation, and promote feelings of happiness.

Provide Comfort and Companionship

Providing comfort and companionship is essential in making people with Alzheimer's or dementia happy. Simple gestures such as holding their hand, providing a hug, or offering a warm blanket can help to provide comfort and promote feelings of happiness. Spending time with the person, engaging in conversation, or simply sitting with them can also provide companionship and promote happiness.

Promote Healthy Eating and Hydration

Healthy eating and hydration are essential for physical and mental well-being. Providing nutritious meals and promoting hydration can help to improve mood, increase energy levels, and promote overall happiness.

In conclusion, making people with Alzheimer's or dementia happy involves creating a safe and comfortable environment, providing activities that stimulate the mind, promoting physical activity, providing opportunities for socialization, creating a sense of purpose, using positive reinforcement, providing comfort and companionship, and promoting healthy eating and hydration. With some effort and creativity, it is possible to bring joy and happiness to those living with these conditions.

Realizing a loved one is in need of assistance can be a very emotional time. Braley Care Homes specializes in Alzheimer's & Dementia and offers exceptional, yet affordable care in a professional, compassionate manner.

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