Which types of activities, games, and crafts are best suited for seniors with memory disorders?
When selecting activities, games, and crafts for seniors with memory disorders, it is essential to focus on those that are engaging and stimulating but also easy to follow. We want our seniors to have a good time, experience a sense of accomplishment and avoid feeling frustrated or overwhelmed. Here are some ideas for activities that are generally well-suited for seniors with memory disorders:
Reminiscence Games: Games that prompt seniors to recall memories from their past can be very enjoyable, engaging, and beneficial. For example, games like “remember when” where seniors share a particular memory or “favorite music or musicians”, “favorite trips” or “favorite performances attended” – can help stimulate memory recall.
Simple Card Games: Card games like Uno, Go Fish, or Memory Match are engaging, fun, and provide cognitive stimulation without being too complex.
Puzzles: Jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and word searches can help keep the mind active and engaged. Start with puzzles that have fewer pieces or easier clues and increase difficulty gradually.
Crafts: Engaging in simple crafts like painting, coloring, knitting, crafting with clay, making flower arrangements, and creating collages can provide a sense of accomplishment and relaxation. These types of activities can also be very therapeutic.
Music: Listening to music or participating in music-based activities such as singing or playing simple instruments can be incredibly beneficial for seniors with memory disorders. Music has been shown to stimulate memory and also up-lift moods. Combine it with ‘name that tune’ for a fun, interactive game.
Board Games: Playing board games that have simple rules and require minimal strategy is fun and stimulates the mind. Games like Bingo, Connect Four, Checkers or Scrabble Junior are some great choices.
Technology-based Games: Many apps and computer programs have been designed for seniors with memory disorders to support cognitive skills. Take a look at games training the brain and memory exercises to see which ones seem best suited for your loved one.
Physical Activities: Light exercises, such as stretching, gentle yoga, seated exercises, and walking (depending on physical limitations) can help improve overall well-being and cognitive function, while also supporting circulation, motor functions, physical strength, balance, and coordination. Plus, getting the body moving, also uplifts moods.
Sensory Stimulation: Activities that engage the senses, such as aromatherapy, tactile stimulation with various textures, or gardening, can help seniors with memory disorders stay present and connected to their surroundings.
Social Activities: Encouraging social interaction through activities like group discussions, storytelling circles, group outings, music sessions, tea parties, and holiday celebrations are not only important for mental support but also emotional well-being.
When selecting activities, games and crafts for seniors with memory disorders, it’s essential to consider individual preferences, physical and mental abilities, and any sensory or other limitations your senior may have. It’s also important to create a supportive and encouraging environment where seniors feel comfortable participating at their own pace and can experience a sense of accomplishment. At Aravilla Sarasota, we consider all these aspects and create and engaging and diverse calendar of activities for our seniors every month.
We invite you to schedule a tour at Memory Care Aravilla Sarasota, so we can help guide you towards the ideal senior living solution for your loved one. Please reach out to one of our memory care advisors at 941.413.5600, we are looking forward to meeting you.
