Fun Ways for Older Adults with Alzheimer’s to Socialize

Seniors with Alzheimer’s need to be engaged and entertained just like any other individual. There are many social activities seniors living with Alzheimer’s might enjoy that also stimulate their cognitive abilities. When looking for fun things to do with your aging loved one, take into consideration the activities he or she once enjoyed. 

Put Together Personalized Picture Puzzles

Family and friends can join your loved one to create puzzles using photographs of family portraits, a beloved pet, or a favorite vacation destination. Attach the photographs to thin pieces of cardboard and laminate them. Cut the images into a variety of geometric shapes. Your loved one can then put the pieces together and delight in the images designed to trigger memories. Having to fit the pieces together correctly stimulates the regions of the brain that encourage problem-solving and fine motor skills. Supply a selection of puzzles to enhance your loved one’s enjoyment. 

Engaging in mentally stimulating activities with their caregivers can enhance quality of life for seniors living with Alzheimer’s. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of home care service. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.

Play Card Games

There are many simple card games seniors with Alzheimer’s might enjoy, including blackjack, Go Fish, and War. Cards with large print are easier on the eyes. As the disease progresses, your loved one may enjoy simply sorting the cards according to suit, color, or number. 

Listen to Music

Listening to music stimulates many areas of the brain. Playing songs or music genres your loved one was once fond of could spark memories. The more engaged your loved one is in the music, the more stimulation his or her brain receives. Encourage your loved one to sing along with you. Perhaps your parent might like to dance or accompany the music using a simple instrument. 

Go on Walks

Take your loved one to a nearby park, nature reserve, or similar setting and allow him or her to enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the location as you walk along the paths. Plan your journeys during different seasons. Take in the blooming flowers of spring. Listen to the summer songbirds. Gaze in awe at the colorful autumn displays. Even a trip to the park to watch children play on the playground may bring back memories and provide enjoyment. Walking stimulates the senses and provides some much-needed exercise. 

Aging adults with Alzheimer’s disease may need supervision when going on outings. Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors to manage without assistance, and it can be just as challenging for families who don’t have experience in providing Alzheimer’s care. Huntsville Home Care Assistance provides Alzheimer’s care seniors and their families can depend on. Our proprietary Cognitive Therapeutics Method was designed to help seniors with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related conditions live happier and healthier lives.

Taste a Variety of Foods

Create a taste-testing adventure in the kitchen for the whole family. Offer a variety of treats such as fruits, vegetables, pretzels with various dips, favorite holiday candies, and flavored teas. Have a good time together finding your loved one’s favorites and maybe triggering some memories. 

Make Cookies

Many seniors have spent their fair share of time in the kitchen, and many also enjoy sweet treats. Set aside some time to make a simple cookie recipe. Your loved one will likely enjoy helping you prepare, knead, and cut the dough. Decorate the baked cookies together. Chat over a cup of coffee or tea and indulge in the finished product. Making and baking homemade bread is another option. 

Helping an aging adult with Alzheimer’s have fun with other people is one of the many ways you can promote his or her health. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of senior home care. Huntsville Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services. If your loved one needs professional care, Home Care Assistance is here to help. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us at (256) 716-9940 today.