There are various activities for dementia that may help individuals in their daily life, including cultivating a hobby of interest, musical therapy or card games that promote mental stimulation. Those afflicted with mild dementia symptoms may find that activities which invoke recollections of the past are helpful in keeping their mind alert. Interacting with pets can also prove to have therapeutic effects for dementia patients.
Caregivers can help find activities for dementia patients, whether they are in the stages of early onset dementia or are moderately affected. Often this can be as simple as choosing past times that are well-suited to the individual's personal likes and preferences. For instance, if the individual with dementia enjoyed a longtime interest in coin collecting, but gave it up due to struggles with his condition, helping him ease back into his hobby can have a positive effect. Often dementia and depression are related due to inactivity, which is why rekindling a former interest can be beneficial.
Beginning a new hobby can have positive effects in dealing with dementia as well. Engaging the individual in nature walks may provoke pleasure or interest. This may spark a new hobby in the form of bird watching. Recognizing various bird species can be a good way of sharpening memory skills as well. Such every day occurrences can have a lasting positive influence in a dementia patient's life.
Activities for dementia can also involve the interplay with pets. Experts believe that adopting, caring for or simply stroking and handling a pet can have positive health effects. Pets can help control depression in many people as well. Experts also believe that activities for dementia involving the interaction of pets can help lower blood pressure and control stress and anxiety in many patients.
Musical therapy can be an essential part of dementia management. This may involve special classes or sessions to allow the dementia patient to become involved in the creative aspect of music. Music in various forms can have relaxing benefits while providing mental stimulation. In these activities, the individual works with a trained musical therapist to help achieve positive results.
Other activities for dementia may include arts and craft projects, cooking or gardening. Drawing, painting, sewing or knitting can be a creative outlet for many individuals with mild to moderate dementia as well. Cooking can be a rewarding past time that can also help the individual feel more confident. Gardening can have the same positive effects, with the added benefit of being outdoors and becoming physically active as well.