Sunday, September 16, 2018

Activities for Advanced Dementia

I will spend some of the future posts discussing advanced dementia activities. For today I would like to share what happened recently at the nursing home.  Grandma's neighbor does not talk very much, he is not able to read, and is not able to solve puzzles, BUT he can still be involved in puzzle-solving! You will need to use puzzles that have 36 pieces (or less). There are puzzles that are available for dementia patients.  Springbok Puzzles is a wonderful puzzle company which makes puzzles for Alzheimer's patients.  They also donate money to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund.  If you want to check them out here is a link: https://www.springbok-puzzles.com


Tips:

1. Look at the cover of the box and talk to them about the picture.
2. Have the family member hold the cover of the box for you.
3. Solve the puzzle while the loved one watches you
4. Describe what you are doing, for example, "I am putting a corner piece in this side."
5. When you are finished, smile and give a "thumbs up".  

Your loved one will be happy to hear your voice, they will watch you solving the puzzle.
It gives you something to talk about, and there will be a little celebration at the end.