Salt and pepper. Macaroni and cheese. Peanut butter and jelly. Some things are simply designed to go together. One combination you want to avoid, however, is dementia and boredom. Reports have revealed that if you don’t take steps to prevent boredom for someone with dementia, you may see an increase in:
- Aggression
- Delirium
- Wandering
- Anxiety
- Agitation
- Depression
- Hallucinations
- And more
Not only that but, boredom in family members providing care for someone with dementia is also troubling, resulting in a heightened risk for burnout and depression.
Simple Tips to Prevent Boredom for Someone With Dementia
Clearly, preventing boredom is a must. These tried and tested strategies are a good place to start.
- Take plenty of time for reminiscing. Use photo albums, scrapbooks, and home movies. Browse the internet for top news articles from a particular time period to talk about together.
- Know what sparks interest, and seek out opportunities for engagement accordingly. For instance, if the person’s face lights up whenever they see a dog, explore pet therapy or arrange for regular visits with family and friends who have dogs.
- Play the person’s favorite music through a variety of means: the radio, videos of concerts, a playlist, outings to local school musical programs or the individual’s religious organization to enjoy spiritual songs. Perhaps even plan a karaoke night with family, or a guitar or piano singalong.
- Keep a journal of which activities were most well received, as well as those that seemed to be of less interest.
- Since loneliness and boredom often occur together, make certain there are regular opportunities for socializing in accordance with the individual’s level of comfort. If large groups of visitors are overwhelming, for example, ask family members and friends to visit one or two at a time.
- Provide plenty of meaningful activities that build a sense of purpose and self-worth. This could include helping with folding laundry, preparing meals, sorting nuts and bolts in a toolbox, or anything that provides a connection to the person’s past occupation or passions.
A companion from Superior Senior Home Care is a great way to bring a breath of fresh air into the day of someone with dementia. Our caregivers are highly skilled and experienced in creative techniques to boost engagement and contentment for someone with dementia. A caregiver from Superior Senior Home Care will add much-needed socialization for your family member, while giving you the chance to step away and take time for yourself.
A few of the many ways we are here to help include:
- Providing transportation and accompaniment for fun outings
- Engagement in ability-appropriate activities that provide purpose and help boost memory
- Conversations and reminiscing
- Assistance with personal care and hygiene
- Planning and preparing nutritious snacks and meals
- And much more
Contact us at 805-737-4357 to learn more about our customized care solutions in Lompoc, Santa Maria, Nipomo, and the surrounding areas.