If you have a parent with Alzheimer’s disease, the more time you can spend with them, the better. In fact, the Alzheimer’s Association states that socialization is shown to improve brain health and overall quality of life among those who have the disease. But since this condition can involve a variety of complicated symptoms — such as memory loss and cognitive decline — knowing how to engage with your loved one can be difficult. Offering home health care services throughout the Finger Lakes region in New York, Lifetime Care highlights a few activities that can be fun for both you and your loved one.  

5 Activities to Try With a Parent Who Has Alzheimer’s Disease

1. Flip Through Photo Albums

Looking through family photo albums can be a great way to engage the mind. For example, looking at old vacation photos could encourage an Alzheimer’s patient to reminisce and talk about the details they can remember, bringing about happy memories and joy.

2. Play Simple Games

Games like checkers and Go Fish are often simple enough for those with Alzheimer’s disease to play without confusion. While simple, home health care providers find these games offer fun challenges that can stimulate areas of the brain required for logical thought.

3. Spend Time With Animals

Animals offer several benefits to people who have Alzheimer’s disease. In many cases, the presence of a well-trained cat or dog can help lower stress levels and provide valuable companionship. Animals can also help trigger pleasant memories — such as good times your loved one had with a pet from the past.

4. Relax Outdoors

Since Alzheimer’s can keep individuals indoors for long periods, it can be beneficial for them to get outside. Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a short walk outdoors, the fresh air and light activity can help boost your parent’s mood and energy level.

5. Listen to Music

Since music is closely linked to memory, listening to a familiar tune can help people with Alzheimer’s recall happy times. To help stimulate an aging parent’s mind, put on one of their favorite albums or listen to music that involves an instrument they used to play.

While spending time with your parent can lift their spirits and stimulate brain activity, there will be times when you need outside support. In those instances, Lifetime Care is here to connect you to reliable, compassionate, and flexible home health care services — including those optimized for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s. This home health care provider extends their resources to families in Rochester, Newark, Auburn, Dundee, and Lakeville, NY. Visit them online to learn more about the ways their home aides can support your loved one or call (585) 214-1000 to speak with a friendly specialist about arranging customized care.