Fun, engagement, and specialized care are all important for individuals with memory related issues. If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s, dementia, etc., you’ve likely looked at any number of programs for the care and treatment of whatever condition your loved one has. Two of the most important factors that should absolutely figure into the lives of those with dementia are fun and engagement.
Activities can provide a self-esteem boost, satisfaction, and fun, particularly when there is no wrong or right way to do them. Additionally, for those with dementia, they may increase quality of life, distract from challenging behavior, and reduce agitation – thereby providing an alternative to medication.
Here, we’re going to take a look at crafting for loved ones with dementia, and offer some ideas. Most, if not all of these items, can be found around the house.
Note: So you know you’re on the right track, you can find a page with pictures of the following crafts here.
Clothes Pins and Colors
By using simple, colored clothespins (either minis or full-size) and stringing a line, attach each one to the line, or a rack, wire basket, etc.
Flower Arrangements
If your crafter enjoys gardening or flowers, the activity of arranging flowers will prove challenging and fun. Supplies may include florist foam, a plastic vase or basket, and artificial flowers.
Fittings and Pipes (You May Want to Check Out the Picture For This One)
If at one point in time your crafter was particularly handy around the home or at work, they may enjoy taking apart and putting together PVC pipes, fittings, etc. Some truly interesting shapes can result from assembling these different lengths of PVC pipe, T-joints, elbows, and more.
Parts Sorting
By using bolts, washers, notes, or coins, a sorting project can be initiated. If the person in question is used to handling money, coins would be a good option. If they used to use tools, the hardware might be better.
Creating With Dough
Using either Play-Doh, modeling clay, or homemade dough, your crafter can relax and have fun by kneading and shaping the dough or clay. Add some fun by using cookie cutters. On the page mentioned above, you’ll find a recipe link for homemade dough.
Shake It
The end product here will come in handy during your next music session. Get some pasta or dry beans, an empty water bottle or plastic container with a tight fitting top, and make a “shaker” simply and inexpensively. Along with the beat of the music during your next musical endeavor, your crafter can shake their new instrument.
Other Suggestions
Here are a few more suggestions for crafts, activities, etc.:
- Use a magnetic tray and colored letter magnets to create a spelling tray.
- Use different colored plastic party cups for stacking, sorting, etc.
- Scrapbooking is always a big hit.
- Use picture cards for sorting, matching, and games like “Concentration” (old school matching and memory game.)
Crafting Activities and More Can Be Found at Rittenhouse Village At Lehigh Valley
When crafting, it’s always important to keep safety in mind. During any activity at Rittenhouse Village at Lehigh Valley, the safety of our residents is always a priority. That’s why we have a team of caring, specially trained, and highly qualified individuals not only directing activities but as a care giving source, as well.
If you’d like some information regarding our retirement community, please call us at 610.433.9220. For sales and leasing inquiries, you can phone us at 484.212.6577. Better yet, schedule a tour to see for yourself what we have to offer.
