BLOG

Activities at Home

Peter Brissette • April 11, 2016

Planning the day for the person with dementia

Activities and the person with dementia

Activities are the things that we do, like getting dressed, doing chores, playing cards even paying bills. They can be active or passive, done alone or with others. Activities represent who we are and what we’re about. A person with dementia needs assistance from a caregiver to organize the day. These planned activities can enhance the person’s sense of dignity and self-esteem by giving more purpose and meaning to his or her life.

Activities structure time. They can make the best of a person’s abilities. Activities can also reduce behavior like wandering or agitation.

Both the person with dementia and the caregiver can enjoy the sense of security and togetherness that activities can provide.

Types of activities

Daily routines

Chores: Dusting, sweeping, doing laundry

Mealtime: Preparing food, cooking, eating

Personal care: Bathing, shaving, getting dressed

Other activities

Creative: Painting, playing the piano

Intellectual: Reading a book, doing crossword puzzles

Physical: Taking a walk, playing catch

Social: Having coffee, talking, playing cards

Spiritual: Praying, singing a hymn

Spontaneous: Going out to dinner, visiting friends

Work-related: Making notes, typing, fixing something

The Alzheimer’s Association recommends creating a daily plan to organize activities. Inside, you’ll find useful information on:

Planning activities page 4
Creating a daily plan page 9
Measuring the plan’s success page 10
Daily plan – sample form page 11

Planning activities

The strategies for planning activities focus on the:

Person
Activity
Approach
Place

1. Person

Planning activities for the person with dementia is best when you continually explore, experiment and adjust. Consider the person’s likes and dislikes; strengths and abilities; and interests. As the disease progresses, keep activities flexible, and be ready to make adjustments.

Keep the person’s skills and abilities in mind

He or she may be able to play simple songs learned on the piano years ago. Bring these types of skills into daily activities.

Pay special attention to what the person enjoys

Take note when the person seems happy, anxious, distracted or irritable. Some people enjoy watching sports, while others may be frightened by the fast pace or noise.

Consider if the person begins activities without direction

Does he or she set the table before dinner or begin sweeping the kitchen floor mid-morning? If so, you may wish to plan these activities as part of the daily routine.

Be aware of physical problems

Does he or she get tired quickly, have difficulty seeing, hearing or performing simple movements? If so, you may want to avoid certain activities.

Activity

Focus on enjoyment, not achievement

Find activities that build on remaining skills and talents. A professional artist might become frustrated over the declining quality of work, but an amateur might enjoy a new opportunity for self-expression.

Encourage involvement in daily life.

Activities that help the individual feel like a valued part of the household like setting the table, wiping counter tops or emptying wastebaskets to provide a sense of success and accomplishment.

Relate activity to work life

A former office worker might enjoy activities that involve organizing, like putting coins in a holder, helping to assemble a mailing or making a to do list. A farmer or gardener will probably take pleasure in working in the yard. Look for favorites. The person who always enjoyed drinking coffee and reading the newspaper may still find these activities enjoyable, even if he or she is no longer able to completely understand what the newspaper says.

Change activities as needed

Try to be flexible and acknowledge the person’s changing interests and abilities.

Consider time of day

Caregivers may find they have more success with certain activities at specific times of day, such as bathing and dressing in the morning. Whatever the case, your typical daily routine may need to change somewhat.

Adjust activities to stages of the disease

As the disease progresses, you may want to introduce more repetitive tasks. Be prepared for the person to eventually take a less-active role in activities.

3. Approach

Offer support and supervision.

You may need to show the person how to perform the activity and provide simple, step-by-step directions.

Concentrate on the process, not the result

Does it really matter if the towels are folded properly? Not really. What matters is that you were able to spend time together, and the person feels as if he or she has helped do something useful.

Be flexible

When the person insists that he or she doesn’t want to do something, it may be because he or she can’t do it or fears doing it. Or if the person insists on doing it a different way, let it happen, and fix it later.

Be realistic and relaxed

Don’t be concerned about filling every minute of the day with an activity. The person with Alzheimer’s needs a balance of activity and rest, and may need more frequent breaks and varied tasks.

Help get the activity started

Most people with dementia still have the energy and desire to do things but lack the ability to organize, plan, initiate and successfully complete the task.

Break activities into simple, easy-to-follow steps.

Too many directions at once often overwhelm a person with dementia. Focus on one task at a time.

Assist with difficult parts of the task.

If you’re cooking, and the person can’t measure the ingredients, finish the measuring and say, Would you please stir this for me?

Let the individual know he or she is needed

Ask, Could you please help me?” Be careful, however, not to place too many demands upon the person.

Stress a sense of purpose

If you ask the person to make a card, he or she may not respond. But, if you say that you’re sending a special get-well card to a friend, the person may enjoy working on this task with you.

Don’t criticize or correct the person

If the person enjoys a harmless activity, even if it may seem insignificant or meaningless to you, you should encourage the person to continue.

Encourage self-expression

Include activities that allow the person a chance for expression. These types of activities could include painting, drawing, music or conversation.

Involve the person through the use of conversation

While you’re polishing shoes, washing the car or cooking dinner, talk to the person about what you’re doing. Even if the person cannot respond, he or she is likely to benefit from your communication.

Substitute an activity for a behavior

If a person with dementia rubs his or her hand on a table, put a cloth in his or her hand, and encourage the person to wipe the table. Or, if the person is moving his or her feet on the floor, play some music so the person can tap them to the beat.

Try again later

If something isnt working, it may just be the wrong time of day or the activity may be too complicated. Try again later, or adapt the activity.

4. Place

Make activities safe

Modify a workshop by removing toxic materials and dangerous tools so an activity such as sanding a piece of wood can be safe and pleasurable.

Change your surroundings to encourage activities

Place in key locations scrapbooks, photo albums or old magazines that help the person reminisce.

Minimize distractions that can frighten or confuse

A person with dementia may not be able to recall familiar sounds and places or may feel uncomfortable in certain settings.

Creating a daily plan

Consider how you organize your own day when planning the day for the person with dementia. There are times when you want variety and other times when you welcome routine. The challenge for caregivers is to find activities that provide meaning and purpose, as well as pleasure.

Begin by thinking about the past week. Try keeping a daily journal, and make notes about:

Which activities worked best and which didn’t? Why?

Were there times when there was too much going on or too little to do?

Were spontaneous activities enjoyable and easily completed? Use what you’ve learned to set up a written daily plan. A planned day allows you to spend less time and energy trying to figure out what to do from moment to moment. Allow yourself and the person with dementia some flexibility for spontaneous activities.

Effective activities:

Bring meaning, purpose, joy and hope to the Person’s life
Use the person’s skills and abilities
Give the person a sense of being normal
Involve family and friends
Are dignified and appropriate for adults
Are enjoyable

Example of a daily plan

Morning

Wash, brush teeth, get dressed
Prepare and eat breakfast
Have coffee and make conversation
Discuss the newspaper, try a craft project, reminisce about old photos
Take a break, have some quiet time
Do some chores together
Take a walk, play an active game

Afternoon-

Prepare and eat lunch, read mail, wash dishes
Listen to music, do crossword puzzles, watch TV
Do some gardening, take a walk, visit a friend
Take a short break or nap

Evening

Prepare and eat dinner, clean up the kitchen
Reminisce over coffee and dessert
Play cards, watch a movie, give a massage
Take a bath, get ready for bed, read a book

Measuring the plan’s success

To decide how the daily plan is working, look at each activity. Think about how the person responds and how well the activity meets your needs.

The success of an activity can vary from day to day. In general, if the person seems bored, distracted or irritable, it may be time to introduce another activity or to take time out for rest.

Oftentimes, structured and pleasant activities reduce agitation and improve mood. The type of activity and how well it’s completed are not as important as the joy and sense of accomplishment the person gets from doing it.

Daily plan

Copy and fill out this sample form or create one that works best for you.

Morning

———————————————————————————–

Afternoon

———————————————————————————–

Evening

———————————————————————————–

This is an official publication of the Alzheimer’s Association but may be distributed by unaffiliated organizations and individuals. Such distribution does not constitute an endorsement of these parties or their activities by the Alzheimer’s Association.

10 Quick Tips

Activities at Home

Be flexible and patient
Encourage involvement in daily life
Avoid correcting the person
Help the person remain as independent as possible
Offer opportunities for choice
Simplify instructions
Establish a familiar routine
Respond to the person’s feelings
Simplify, structure and supervise
Provide encouragement and praise

The Alzheimer’s Association, the world leader in Alzheimer research, care and support, is dedicated to finding prevention methods, treatments and an eventual cure for Alzheimer’s. For reliable information and support, contact the Alzheimer’s Association:

1.800.272.3900 www.alz.org

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Staying Active in Assisted Living: Fun and Engaging Exercise Programs for Seniors

October 24, 2025

Maintaining an active lifestyle is essential for seniors' overall health and well-being. Regular physical activity enhances mobility, boosts mood, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. In assisted living communities, structured exercise programs promote residents' physical and mental health. These programs are tailored to accommodate varying fitness levels, ensuring inclusivity and safety for all participants. Assisted living facilities recognize the importance of offering diverse and engaging exercise options. By providing a range of activities, the program allows residents to find programs that align with their interests and abilities. This personalized approach fosters a sense of autonomy and encourages consistent participation. Moreover, group exercise sessions enhance social connections, contributing to a supportive community environment. Why Exercise Programs Are Important in Assisted Living Regular exercise is vital for seniors to maintain independence and prevent health decline. Physical activity improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and enhances flexibility. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , adults aged 65 and older should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. Meeting these guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Structured exercise programs are designed to meet these recommendations in assisted living settings. These programs offer a variety of activities, from aerobic classes to strength training, ensuring residents can choose exercises they enjoy. Regular physical activity can improve balance and coordination in seniors, reducing the likelihood of falls. Additionally, exercise has been linked to enhanced cognitive function, aiding in memory retention and mental clarity. Beyond physical benefits, exercise programs contribute to emotional well-being. Group activities foster social interaction, combating feelings of loneliness and isolation. The sense of community and shared goals can lead to increased motivation and adherence to fitness routines. Assisted living communities prioritize creating an environment where residents feel encouraged and supported in their wellness journeys. Furthermore, tailored exercise programs can accommodate individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations. Certified fitness instructors modify activities to ensure safety and accessibility for all participants. This inclusivity empowers residents to take charge of their health, regardless of physical limitations. Personalized fitness plans can address specific health concerns and improve quality of life. Types of Exercise Programs Beneficial for Seniors Various exercise programs cater to seniors' unique needs and promote comprehensive health benefits. Aerobic activities, such as walking clubs or low-impact dance classes, improve cardiovascular endurance. These activities elevate heart rate safely, enhancing blood circulation and respiratory efficiency. Regular participation can lead to increased stamina and energy levels. Strength training exercises are crucial for maintaining muscle mass and bone density. Seniors can safely build strength by using resistance bands, light weights, or body-weight exercises. The National Institute on Aging emphasizes that strength training helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis and enhances functional abilities. Improved muscle strength supports daily activities and fosters greater independence.

The Power of Art Therapy: Enhancing Creativity and Emotional Well-being in Senior Living

October 21, 2025

Art therapy has emerged as a powerful tool for enhancing creativity and emotional well-being among seniors in assisted living communities. By engaging in creative activities, residents can express emotions, reduce stress, and improve cognitive functions. Incorporating art therapy into senior care plans offers a holistic mental and emotional health approach. Assisted living facilities increasingly recognize the value of such programs in promoting residents' quality of life. Integrating art therapy into daily routines at Assured Senior Living reflects a commitment to innovative, person-centered care. The facility fosters an environment of creativity and emotional support by providing residents with opportunities to explore various art forms. The Psychological Benefits of Art Therapy Engaging in art therapy allows seniors to process complex emotions in a nonverbal manner. Through creative expression, individuals can explore feelings that may be difficult to articulate. This process aids in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, which are common among the elderly. Art therapy also promotes a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Completing an art project, regardless of its scale, can boost self-esteem and confidence. This sense of achievement is particularly beneficial for seniors facing physical or cognitive limitations. It reinforces their capabilities and fosters a positive self-image. Furthermore, the creative process can distract from chronic pain or discomfort. Focusing on art projects diverts attention away from physical ailments, providing relief and improving overall quality of life. This therapeutic effect underscores the mind-body connection in holistic care approaches. Incorporating art therapy into pain management plans can be a valuable strategy in assisted living settings. Art therapy also encourages mindfulness and present-moment awareness. Engaging in creative activities requires concentration, which can quiet the mind and reduce rumination on past or future concerns. This mindfulness aspect contributes to decreased stress levels and enhanced emotional regulation. Regular practice can lead to long-term improvements in mental health and resilience. Improving Cognitive Function Through Art Therapy Participating in art therapy stimulates various cognitive processes , including memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Creating art engages multiple areas of the brain, fostering neural connections and cognitive resilience. This stimulation is vital for seniors to maintain mental sharpness and delay cognitive decline. Activities such as painting, drawing, or sculpting challenge the mind and encourage continuous learning.

Gardening for Seniors: Benefits and Accessible Gardening Ideas in Assisted Living

October 17, 2025

Gardening offers numerous benefits for seniors, particularly those residing in assisted living communities. Engaging in gardening activities provides physical exercise, mental stimulation, and opportunities for social interaction. The fresh air and connection to nature further enhance overall well-being. Incorporating accessible gardening ideas ensures that all seniors, regardless of mobility levels, can participate and reap these benefits. Assisted living communities that integrate gardening into their programs create enriching environments for residents. By tailoring gardening activities to meet the needs of seniors, these communities promote active lifestyles and improve quality of life. 1. Physical Benefits of Gardening for Seniors Gardening is a low-impact physical activity that enhances strength, flexibility, and endurance. Tasks such as planting, weeding, and watering involve various muscle groups, promoting overall fitness. Regular physical activity through gardening can help manage weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and improve cardiovascular health. According to a study , gardening has strong physical health benefits for older adults. Engaging in gardening also improves hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Handling tools and plants requires precision, which can enhance dexterity. Maintaining motor skills is crucial for daily activities and contributes to sustained independence. Moreover, the physical exertion involved in gardening can lead to better sleep patterns, further benefiting overall health. Exposure to sunlight during gardening increases vitamin D levels, which are essential for bone health. Adequate vitamin D helps prevent osteoporosis and fractures, which are common concerns among seniors. However, to reduce the risk of skin cancer, it's important to balance sun exposure with skin protection. Wearing appropriate clothing and sunscreen can mitigate these risks. The right gardening ideas also encourage functional movement, such as bending and stretching, which enhance flexibility. These movements can alleviate stiffness and improve joint health. Maintaining flexibility is vital for comfortably performing daily tasks. Furthermore, the weight-bearing aspects of gardening activities help strengthen bones and muscles. Gardening can also be a form of aerobic exercise. Activities like raking and digging elevate heart rates, promoting cardiovascular fitness. This aerobic component contributes to overall stamina and energy levels. Incorporating regular gardening sessions into routines can lead to long-term health benefits. 2. Mental and Emotional Benefits Gardening has been linked to improved mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Nurturing plants provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Engaging with nature has a calming effect, lowering stress levels and promoting relaxation. According to experts , gardening has been scientifically proven to improve both mental and physical health, contributing to a longer and happier life. Gardening activities stimulate the brain through sensory experiences such as touching soil and smelling flowers. These stimuli can evoke positive memories and emotions, which is particularly beneficial for seniors with dementia. Gardening activities also encourage mindfulness, keeping individuals present and engaged. This focus can distract from negative thoughts and improve mood.

The Benefits of Group Therapy for Parkinson’s Rehabilitation

October 15, 2025

How can group therapy enhance the rehabilitation process for Parkinson’s patients? Group therapy offers a multifaceted approach to Parkinson’s care, addressing both physical and cognitive challenges. By participating in structured group activities, patients can experience significant mobility and mental acuity improvements, fostering a supportive environment that promotes overall well-being. The Science Behind Group Therapy's Impact on Mobility Research consistently shows that group therapy can significantly enhance the mobility of Parkinson’s patients. Studies indicate that engaging in group-based physical activities, such as tai chi, dance, and resistance training, can improve balance, gait, and overall motor function. These activities not only target the physical symptoms of Parkinson’s but also provide a structured environment where patients can motivate each other.

Advances in Parkinson’s Research: What’s New in Treatment and Care?

October 9, 2025

Discover the latest Parkinson’s research, from gene therapy to deep brain stimulation, offering new hope for improved care and quality of life.

Addressing Sensory Processing Issues in Seniors with Dementia

October 7, 2025

Learn how sensory processing issues affect seniors with dementia and discover environmental changes that improve comfort and quality of life.

How Robotics and AI are Improving Senior Care

October 2, 2025

Discover how AI and robotics are improving senior care. From mobility aids to health monitoring and caregiver support, explore tech that enhances elder well-being.

Exploring the Benefits of Adult Day Care Programs

September 30, 2025

Adult daycare programs have emerged as vital components in the continuum of care for older adults. These programs offer structured, daytime support, allowing seniors to engage in social, therapeutic, and health-related activities while returning to their homes in the evening. Adult daycare provides a flexible and supportive solution for families balancing caregiving responsibilities with other commitments. Understanding the multifaceted benefits of these programs is essential for making informed care decisions. The demand for adult day care services is growing, reflecting the needs of an aging population seeking alternatives to full-time residential care. According to the CDC , over 5,100 adult day services centers in the United States serve approximately 182,000 participants daily. These centers cater to individuals with varying levels of physical and cognitive abilities and provide personalized care plans. Exploring the specific advantages of adult day care can illuminate its role in promoting senior well-being and family support. How Adult Day Care Programs Improve Social Engagement Social isolation is a significant concern among older adults, often leading to adverse health outcomes. Adult day care programs address this issue by fostering a community environment where seniors can interact with peers. Engaging in group activities , such as art classes, music sessions, and games, encourages socialization and reduces feelings of loneliness. Regular participation in these programs can lead to improved mood and cognitive function. The structured nature of adult day care ensures that participants have access to consistent social opportunities. Centers often organize events and outings, providing variety and stimulation. These activities are designed to be inclusive, accommodating different interests and abilities. Such engagement is crucial for maintaining a sense of purpose and belonging among seniors.

Meaningful Ways to Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones in Assisted Living

September 25, 2025

Maintaining strong connections with loved ones in assisted living is vital for their emotional and psychological well-being. Regular, meaningful interactions can significantly enhance a resident's quality of life, providing comfort and a sense of belonging. Understanding the best ways to spend quality time together fosters these benefits. Assisted living communities offer various opportunities for families to connect with residents through structured and informal activities. These environments are designed to support social engagement, making it easier for loved ones to participate in residents' daily lives. From communal events to personalized visits, numerous ways exist to create meaningful experiences. Exploring these options can help families make the most of their time together. Engage in Shared Activities in Assisted Living Participating in activities together can be a fulfilling way to spend time with loved ones in assisted living. Simple actions like reading a book aloud, working on a puzzle, or watching a favorite movie can provide comfort and enjoyment. These shared experiences can evoke positive memories and foster a sense of normalcy. Such activities can also stimulate emotion, conversation, and connection. Creative pursuits like painting, knitting, or crafting can be therapeutic and enjoyable. These activities allow residents to express themselves and can be a source of pride and accomplishment. Family members participating in these creative endeavors can strengthen their bond with the resident. Additionally, displaying completed projects can boost the resident's self-esteem and provide conversation starters.

Healthy Holiday Eating: Tips for Seniors to Enjoy Festive Meals Without Sacrificing Their Health

September 23, 2025

The holiday season brings joy, togetherness, and an abundance of delicious meals. For a senior, it's a time to celebrate with loved ones while being mindful of their health. Maintaining a balanced diet during festive gatherings is essential to ensure overall well-being. Assisted living communities are crucial in supporting seniors who enjoy holiday feasts without compromising their health. Assisted living facilities recognize the importance of nutrition in senior health. They provide tailored meal plans catering to individual dietary needs, ensuring seniors receive the necessary nutrients. These communities also offer educational programs to promote healthy eating habits among residents. Focusing on nutritional awareness helps seniors make informed choices during the holiday season. Understanding Nutritional Needs During the Holidays As people age, their nutritional requirements change , necessitating diet adjustments. Seniors often need fewer calories but more of certain nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and fiber. During the holidays, indulging in calorie-dense foods that lack essential nutrients is easy. Assisted living communities address this by offering festive and nutritionally balanced meals. Protein intake is vital for senior health, helping maintain muscle mass and strength. Holiday meals can be tailored to include lean proteins such as turkey or plant-based alternatives. Incorporating these options helps seniors meet their protein needs without excessive saturated fats. Assisted living facilities ensure that holiday menus are designed with these considerations. Fiber is another crucial component of a senior's diet, aiding in digestion and preventing constipation. Holiday dishes can be modified to include whole grains, fruits, and fiber-rich vegetables. Seniors can enjoy traditional meals while supporting their digestive health. Assisted living communities prioritize these dietary adjustments during festive seasons. Hydration is often overlooked but is essential for seniors, especially during the holidays when alcohol and caffeinated beverages are prevalent. Encouraging water intake and offering hydrating foods like soups and fruits can help maintain proper hydration levels. Assisted living facilities monitor residents' fluid intake to prevent dehydration. Managing Chronic Senior Health Conditions with Holiday Foods Many seniors manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or kidney disease, which require specific dietary considerations. Holiday meals can be adapted to accommodate these needs without sacrificing flavor. Assisted living communities work closely with dietitians to create menus that align with senior residents’ health requirements. Controlling carbohydrate intake is crucial to managing blood sugar levels for seniors with diabetes. To reduce glycemic impact, holiday dishes can be prepared with whole grains and natural sweeteners. Assisted living facilities provide alternatives that allow diabetic residents to enjoy desserts in moderation. Thoughtful substitutions make holiday meals inclusive for all.