Braley Care Homes Inc
Consultant, Writer, and Therapist in Hurricane, WV
Ways to Keep Memory Care Patients Happy | Braley Care Homes
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March 30, 2023•4 min read
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.