Social interactions strengthen mental, physical and emotional connections. This is true for anyone but especially for individuals with Alzheimer’s. Routine interaction helps to maintain brain function, and mood. Activities, such as volunteering, traveling, working on hobbies, being with family and with friends- old or new- are all great ways to stay socially active. It’s never too late to try new things!
Being intentional about staying socially active may include:
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Attending an activity that they were invited to
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Talking with people around them- even sales clerks, librarians, and people at the park
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Connect with friends and loved ones through phone calls or emails
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Volunteer work
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Book club
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Attend a concert, play, movie, or theater production
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Invite people to join them at home or for an outing
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Join an exercise group or form one on their own!
For people with Alzheimer’s, mobility and mood challenges may arise. Alzheimer’s can create some limitations and challenges but exercise and being physically active provide improvements in many areas. Exercise, especially in a group, helps keep muscles, joints, and heart in good condition and encourages the maintenance of physical abilities. Exercise also helps maintain a healthy sleep habit, intestinal health, flexibility, and weight. It is important for people with Alzheimer’s to maintain independence. It is also important to know that they are safe. Be sure to discuss activities and how they may be done in a safe and healthy way!
To stay active, individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease often need supports:
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Learning about options for staying active
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Initially joining or beginning an activity
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Realistic time-frames- maybe even creating short workouts throughout the day rather than a long routine all at once
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Walking together- you need the exercise, too
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Wear an ID bracelet with the name and emergency phone number, at least when walking alone
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Music for exercise- this will deepen connections and bring joy while dancing
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Find online programs that are appropriate
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Clear, concise directions
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Safe and appropriate clothing and shoes
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Ensure that he or she drinks plenty of water and, perhaps, juice after an exercise activity.
BrightStar
Social activities as well as physical activities bring many benefits with them for all individuals, including those with Alzheimer’s Disease. At BrightStar Care, we are committed to empowering people to live full, healthy, and fulfilling lives. We recognize the difficulties and challenges that Alzheimer’s and Dementia often bring. We strive to offer friendly, compassionate Alzheimer’s and Dementia Home Care along with a variety of other services. Our goal is to enable your loved one to live with dignity and safety, enjoy optimal physical and emotional health, and maintain connections to the people, places, things and memories that matter most to them.
Please contact us to find out more about what our team can do to better help you have peace of mind as we work with you to meet the needs of your loved one.