At Homewatch CareGivers of Lincolnwood we get to know the whole person so that our time together can include joyful moments and not just tasks. This person-centered approach to care is behind every care plan and engagement with our clients.
Some of our most popular and memorable times spent with our clients include games. A favorite pastime is something that you do in your spare time because you enjoy it. Everyone likes to do the things they enjoy or even play their favorite game no matter how old you are or what condition you have! As you age, you don't have to give up activities that you loved and sometimes it is even a chance to regain the love you had for an activity. The Alzheimer’s Association has also shared research on the benefits of activities for people with Alzheimer’s and related dementias.
In caring for the whole person we gain an understanding of the activities a person likes to do or once enjoyed and modify it as needed as our caregivers learn each client’s needs and preferences.
Here are some of our recent activities:
Playing games: We like to play Scrabble with clients, sometimes we keep score, and sometimes we just try to make as many words as we can. Here is a Scrabble game where they were able to use all the letters. Those of you that play scrabble know how hard that is!
Walking: Getting outside can offer a change in routine or a chance to reconnect with friends, nature, and yourself. Our caregivers can join a client for a walk to assist them as needed or simply provide companionship.
Music: There are many articles written about the effect of music on the brain. Music can remind you of the best days of your life. It can comfort you. It can even energize you to exercise or be motivated. There are plenty of scientific studies that document the effect of music. Music has even been found to alleviate chronic pain and anxiety, and you can read more in this AARP article.
“Old School” games:
Card games such as poker, solitaire and bridge can offer intellectual and social stimulation, especially for people who grew up playing cards. Time and practice are your friends when it comes to following the intricacies of playing cards—whether you plan to win or just for fun.
Read how a bridge card game can be good for brain health. https://www.aarp.org/health/brain-health/info-2015/bridge-for-brain-health.html
Hobbies: Sometimes our caregivers can assist someone in their gardening or help with transportation to a yoga or exercise class they have enjoyed. Knitting, embroidery, or crochet are other hobbies that sometimes our caregivers can learn from a client who his eager to teach and have a new friend pick up.
So, it's always good to remember what you like to do, as the adage says, “Never lose your childish enthusiasm’.
Click here to learn more about:
Homewatch CareGivers Total Care Solutions™: https://www.homewatchcaregivers.com/homewatch-caregivers-total-care-solutions/
Homewatch Connect™: https://www.homewatchcaregivers.com/homewatch-caregivers-total-care-solutions/homewatch-connect/
Care Levels and Active Care: https://www.homewatchcaregivers.com/homewatch-caregivers-total-care-solutions/care-levels/
Meaningful vs Meaningless Activity: https://www.homewatchcaregivers.com/blog/health-tips/meaningful-v-meaningless-activity/
Meaningful Moments with Music: https://www.homewatchcaregivers.com/blog/caregivers/meaningful-moments-with-music-for-people-with-de/
