Assisting a family member who needs dementia care can involve everything from monitoring medication intake to personal grooming to providing social and emotional support. You can also strengthen and boost your loved one’s memory through enjoyable, engaging activities. Try these simple tips at home.

4 Activities for Loved Ones in Dementia Care

1. Listening to Music

The music from your loved one’s youth evokes strong emotional responses and can bring back positive memories and improve their mood. Music also boosts brain activity in dementia patients. Your loved one will appreciate familiar songs and may even sing along.

2. Watering the Plants

If your family member has a green thumb but is unable to continue tending their garden, try maintaining indoor plants instead. It’s relaxing and watering the plants can connect them to the memory of something they loved to do.

3. Housework

Household chores might not seem like a fun activity, but engaging in a familiar routine can be enjoyable and comforting. Try something easy like sweeping the floor or tidying up a room in the house. If your loved one can’t stand up, try stationary tasks like folding laundry and matching socks.

4. Personal Grooming

Physical touch is an important part of staying connected and emotionally healthy. Set aside a regular time to help your family member perform personal grooming routines you know they value. If they always had perfectly coiffed hair, take the time to brush and style it. An at-home pedicure and manicure can be relaxing and fun. Helping your loved one maintain their personal grooming demonstrates how much you care, and keeps them looking and feeling good.

Your loved one is in good hands at the Bethany St. Joseph Corporation in La Crosse, WI. Its assisted living communities and skilled nursing facilities offer Alzheimer’s and dementia care as well as physical rehabilitation for individuals trying to get back on their feet. For more than 40 years, their healthcare professionals have provided compassionate, high-quality care that’s also cost-effective. To schedule a tour or learn more about their services, call (608) 788-5700 or contact a staff member online now.