What activities might interest a person with Alzheimer's disease?
First of all, do not expect too much. Finding activities that a person with Alzheimer's disease can do and is interested in can be a challenge.
Simple activities are the best, especially if you can find activities that use the abilities the person has retained.
Activities that are familiar, such as folding clothes, kneading dough, or digging in the garden may be comfortable.
Think of other opportunities for pleasant events, such as bringing in live pets or stuffed animals, playing calming music, or growing a garden.
Help the person to get started on an activity and break the activity down into small steps. Give praise for each step completed. Try to incorporate activities into a normal daily routine.
What types of exercise should a person with Alzheimer's engage in?
Choose exercises that both you and the person find easy and can do together. Physical activities you both enjoy, perhaps walking, swimming, tennis, dancing, or gardening might be good choices. Check out local exercise programs such as classes at senior centers or mall walking programs. Build slowly and be realistic in your expectations.
What is the best way to communicate with a person who has Alzheimer's?
People with Alzheimer's often have problems expressing themselves and understanding others when they speak. When the person is talking, listen carefully, observe body language, and eliminate distractions such as radio and TV.
It is best to address the person in a calm, gentle tone of voice and use simple words and short sentences. You many need to repeat yourself several times or use hand gestures to show what you mean.
