Try these five tips to prevent boredom in dementia for someone you love.Salt and pepper. Macaroni and cheese. Peanut butter and jelly. Some things are just supposed to go together. One combination you want to avoid, however, is dementia and boredom. Research reports have revealed that boredom in dementia results in an increase in:
- Delirium
- Anxiety
- Hallucinations
- Agitation
- Wandering
- Depression
- Aggression
- And more
Not only that but, boredom in family members providing care for someone with dementia is also troubling, resulting in a heightened risk for burnout and depression.
Simple Tips to Prevent Someone With Dementia From Becoming Bored
Clearly, preventing boredom is a must. These tried and tested strategies are a good place to begin.
- Play the person’s favorite music through a variety of means: the radio, a playlist, videos of concerts, outings to local school musical programs or the person’s religious organization to enjoy spiritual songs. Perhaps even plan a karaoke night with family, or a piano or guitar singalong.
- Know what sparks interest, and look for opportunities for engagement accordingly. For example, if the individual’s face lights up whenever they see a dog, explore pet therapy or arrange for regular visits with family and friends who have dogs.
- Provide plenty of meaningful activities that build a feeling of purpose and self-worth. This could include helping with folding laundry, preparing meals, sorting nuts and bolts in a toolbox, or whatever provides a connection to the individual’s past passions or occupation.
- Keep a journal of which activities were most well received, as well as the ones that seemed to be of less interest.
- Since loneliness and boredom often occur together, be sure there are frequent opportunities for socializing in accordance with the individual’s comfort level. If large groups of visitors are overwhelming, for example, ask friends and family members to visit one or two at a time.
- Take sufficient time for reminiscing. Use scrapbooks, photo albums, and home movies. Search the internet for top news articles from a specific time period to talk about together.
A companion from JFS Care is an excellent way to bring a breath of fresh air into the day of someone with dementia. Our caregivers are highly skilled and experienced in creative techniques to boost engagement and contentment for someone with dementia. A caregiver from JFS Care will add much-needed socialization for your family member, while giving you the chance to step away and take time for yourself.
A few of the many ways we are here to help include:
- Planning and preparing nutritious snacks and meals
- Assistance with hygiene and personal care
- Reminiscing and conversations
- Providing transportation and accompaniment for fun outings
- Engagement in ability-appropriate activities that provide purpose and help boost memory
- And much more
Contact us at 213-383-2273 for more information on our customized care solutions in Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, Santa Monica, and the surrounding areas.