Did you know that an estimated 6.7 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s in 2023? According to the Alzheimer’s Association^Ⓡ, this will only rise, as the number of older adults is also rising. By 2050, the number of those 65 and older with Alzheimer’s may grow to a projected 12.7 million.

This means that while we race for a cure and treatment, it’s important to find ways to help those with the condition enjoy their daily life while feeling a sense of purpose, connection and support. One way we can do this is through memory care’s stimulating activities.

Benefits of Participating in Regular Activities for Seniors With Dementia

Older adults with early-stage or late-stage memory loss can benefit from stimulating and sensory activities. Some of the benefits they can expect include:

• Slower rates of cognitive decline
• A reduction in challenging behaviors
• Increased social interaction
• Better sleep
• Enhanced self-esteem
• Lessened risk of anxiety and depression
• Increased physical activity

Great Activities for Seniors With Dementia

If you need help finding activities for a person with dementia to participate in, we’re here to help. Check out some of our top suggestions below.

Games and Puzzles

There are plenty of puzzles and games dementia patients can participate in. From their old favorites to new games adapted to their needs, talents and abilities, there are plenty you can enjoy together.

• Play chess or checkers
• Try your hand at word games like word finds and scrambles
• Pull out an old favorite like Candyland or Chutes and Ladders
• Yell UNO! when you’re down to one card and enjoy some friendly competition
• Play charades
• Do some puzzles together

Crafts for Dementia Patients

Creative activities are among some of the best for seniors with dementia to do. No matter their stage of dementia, it’s simple to find creative activities that can help to ease their mind, provide an emotional outlet, help them feel connected, and even enhance their motor skills.

What crafts could dementia patients enjoy? 

• Creating a memory box
• Being a scientist and mixing up some fun sensory stimulants like scented slime or dough 
• Painting, drawing or coloring
• Sculpting or trying pottery
• Picking up nature items during a walk and making a craft out the items collected
• Creating a collage of photos
• Making bracelets or necklaces with beads
• Decorating a bag to hold their favorite items
• Creating a floral arrangement

Engaging Activities for Groups

Group activities for dementia patients can be a great way to connect and engage while enjoying the benefits of engagement. 

• Listen to music and enjoy a bit of music therapy while chatting about your favorite songs
• Have them showcase their talents by playing a musical instrument
• Encourage them to try something new, like trivia for seniors
• Have a movie night with classic movies
• Travel to a popular destination virtually
• Reminisce about special events
• Have them attend a social club or social hour with others with memory loss

Household Tasks

If your loved one was a homemaker, don’t underestimate the value of performing household tasks. Even if they weren’t, these activities can provide a sense of purpose while helping those living with memory loss to feel as though they’re contributing.

Consider having them help you:

• Fold laundry
• Set the table
• Make the beds
• Bake their favorite desserts
• Plan dinner recipes
• Water the plants or tend the garden

Keeping Memory Care Residents Engaged at Cascade Living

At Cascade Living Group, we provide a range of activities for Alzheimer’s patients to enjoy. 

From life-enrichment programs to amenities and services, this is just some of what you can expect within our memory care communities:

• Wellness programs
• Dining events
• Outings
• Live entertainment
• Scheduled transportation
• Social hours
• Cultural programs

Discover the Difference Between Living and Living Well With Memory Loss

If you’re thinking your loved one could benefit from dementia care, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn more about our memory care and how we enhance seniors’ quality of life each day. Or, to discover how our memory care activity ideas equip seniors living with dementia to enjoy purposeful and active lives, schedule a visit.