As a condition that causes progressive, irreversible damage to the brain, Alzheimer’s disease is often thought to be a problem that can’t be helped. But while there is not yet a cure for this common form of dementia, there are still many ways that you can help a loved one with Alzheimer’s. In particular, spending time with affected individuals can help them avoid isolation, depression, and may even delay the progression of the disease. If you are looking for ways to enrich the life of a loved one with Alzheimer’s, here are five mentally-stimulating activities to try.

5 Mind-Stimulating Activities to Help Loved Ones Affected by Dementia

1. Listen to Music

Listening to music, especially favorite songs of the individuals, is shown to stimulate areas of the brain that aren’t yet affected by Alzheimer’s disease. This may occur, because music may unlock certain memories and help individuals feel more content.

2. Make a Recipe

Cooking or baking can be a rewarding experience for those with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. In addition to giving you quality time, this activity encourages individuals to follow logical steps and engage in simple, yet mentally-challenging tasks—such as measuring out ingredients or preparing nutritionally-balanced meals.

3. Take a Walk

Exercise is certainly good for the entire body, but it can also be quite beneficial for the brain as well. By boosting the circulatory system, walking can help promote better brain health. Emerging research also suggests that fitness may even help repair damaged areas of the brain. Taking a walk outdoors will also expose your loved one to a different environment, allowing them to be stimulated by their community and nature.

4. Play Simple Games

Although some games may be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer’s, there are several simple and entertainment options that can help boost brain activity. For example, simple card or board games—such as Go Fish or checkers—provide an opportunity to engage in logical and strategic decision-making processes.

5. Look at Photo Albums

Looking through old photo albums is a great way to take a trip down memory lane and stimulate different areas of the brain. While looking through pictures, encourage your loved one to reflect on the image and recount who is in it, when it was taken, and what was happening.

At  Coryell Health RehabLiving, we are dedicated to improving memory care needs for seniors through our comprehensive Alzheimer’s and dementia services. Whether your loved one comes to us for short-term rehabilitation or for long-term care, family and friends take comfort that they are under the same roof as the hospital and medical clinic. RehabLiving is the only nursing home with only private and semi-private rooms in Gatesville.  Every third Monday, we host a dementia/Alzheimer’s support group at the Gatesville Library at noon.