Monday, 28 March 2022 12:11

Top 5 Memory Care Activities for Stimulation

When weather conditions drive our senior residents indoors for an extended period, things can get dull quickly. It is important to have aging seniors participate in stimulating activities, especially if they have memory problems. Recreational activities, such as games, can be effective mood boosters that can enhance a senior's overall quality of life. As top memory care providers in Illinois, we know these activities like the back of our hands.

We picked out our favorite activities to engage residents at our memory care facility below.

The Best Games and Activities for Memory Care Communities

From therapeutic activities to relaxing pastimes, there are many options to consider. We chose the following activities because they're inexpensive, accessible, and thoroughly entertaining.

1. Board Games and Puzzles

Gathering residents for a board game can be a fun, and simple, way to pass the time. Card games and uncomplicated board games are a great way to have seniors get together for a low-pressure activity.

Traditional jigsaw puzzles are another reliable way to entertain our senior family members. Seniors can gain a solid sense of accomplishment once a puzzle is complete. Keep in mind, big table-top puzzles can take up a lot of room, and lost pieces may cause frustration, so it may be best to start with a smaller jigsaw puzzle.

Beyond entertainment, research has shown several positive impacts on playing board games for cognitive stamina.

2. Exercise and Outdoor Activity for Memory Care

Take a little walk, or roll, around your neighborhood. Recent studies suggest that regular aerobic activity slows the progression of dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Any kind of exercise is beneficial for their mental health and physical well-being.

3. Scenic Drives

A scenic drive can be a pleasant way to get outside and get some fresh air. At The Creeks, we offer transportation for our seniors so that they can get out of the residency without driving their own car or waiting until a family member is able to take them. We’ll even schedule occasional field trips and excursions for more group activities. The best part about a drive is the ability for seniors to lean back and enjoy new scenery without having to physically exert themselves.

4. Musical Activities

Music has wonderful effects that can help improve the memory and cognitive abilities of seniors who need memory care services. According to the Mayo Clinic, "Research suggests that listening to or singing songs can provide emotional and behavioral benefits for people with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. Musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer's disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease."

Studies have shown that musical activities and games for memory care patients can:

  • Reduce stress
  • Relieve agitation
  • And even reduce depression!

5. Arts and Crafts

Arts and crafts activities are simple and fun ways to be creative and show self-expression. There are plenty of intriguing craft ideas online and in books that can be enjoyed for several hours on end. At The Creeks, we offer a range of crafty activities for our residents to participate in, from painting to knitting and more.

Tour A Top-Rated Memory Care Community Near You

Our close-knit community at The Creeks is committed to making the exceptional quality of life for your loved one a reality. We always prioritize social activities that will allow your aging loved ones to enjoy their life to the fullest. Give them the personalized care they deserve at one of our top-tier memory care communities in Troy, IL, Sullivan, IL, or Cheyenne, WY.

Schedule a consultation to discuss memory care for your family member today.