COVID-19 has created all kinds of challenges over the last year. As cities have made efforts to limit the spread of the virus, it presents a unique set of challenges for dementia patients and caregivers. One of the most critical things that come with caring for dementia patients is providing activities to keep their minds active and engaged. The monotony of lockdown makes that harder. Advanced Respiratory Care recommends doing the following activities to keep dementia patients’ minds active.
Games & Puzzles
Playing board games is a great way to provide engaging fun for patients with dementia. Plus, you can play games almost anywhere, which makes them the ideal activity for lockdown. Many games can also be played online, which allows caregivers to provide activities even when they can’t be in the same space. Puzzles are also a great activity for dementia patients. Looking for patterns and the alignment of the pieces can be very helpful for patients.
Stay Connected
Seeing familiar faces is important for dementia patients. While lockdown prevents in-person visits with the people they love most, there are still so many ways to keep in touch without being in the same room. Schedule regular video calls with people that dementia patients are used to seeing. Seeing their loved ones on a regular basis is an important way to keep dementia patients engaged throughout the lockdown.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor activities are another way to keep dementia patients engaged. And while they may require a mask to do it safely, being outdoors is a great way to add variety and break up the monotony. Whether it’s going for a walk or working in the garden, simply being outside can provide a nice change of pace for dementia patients and activate their minds.
We know COVID lockdown is a struggle for everyone. But with these activities, caregivers can provide some much-needed variety for their patients. If you have any questions about how to help dementia patients during the lockdown, please contact ARC.