One can never overestimate the power of music for people with dementia. Music provides an important connection to memory and can be used in many different ways. Music can be a powerful source of joy and comfort for people with dementia and for those around them.”
Have you ever wondered why change is so difficult for us as human beings? Although change is a simple word, it can mean so many things to the person experiencing it. As a care partner, you could be changing homes, changing relationships or routines, or facing something completely different from what you are used to.
When the need for personal support worker (PSW) assistance for your person in the home is required, it’s often not easy for the care partner, the person living with dementia or the PSW. There are a few things you can prepare for and provide, so that the PSW – a virtual stranger in your home – can be successful in providing care for your person.
Participating in the McCormick Day Program may seem like it’s all about fun and games, but there’s certainly more to the program than that. Even the table games that we engage the clients in are more complex than what you may think. These games can vary in cognitive complexity: Some may simply be games of chance, while others may require some strategic thinking, answering short questions or responding to conversation starters.
As a person ages, the risk for falls increases, particularly in people with dementia. Furthermore, people living with Parkinson’s disease, vascular, and Lewy body dementia are at an even higher risk of mobility disturbances. Consider that someone with dementia may experience impacts to some or all of the following ...
Consider, if you will, a beautiful boat floating gracefully across the water, looking so serene and peaceful. It’s a scene that has been the basis of many photos and paintings. Have you ever taken a moment to consider a more in-depth look at those kinds of pictures?
One can never overestimate the power of music for people with dementia. Music provides an important connection to memory and can be used in many different ways. Music can be a powerful source of joy and comfort for people with dementia and for those around them.”
Having an idea for an interesting activity for your loved one is an important first step toward getting them involved and engaged. It is not unexpected that at times they may be hesitant or unsure of what to expect when starting an activity, including activities they have performed many times in the past and would otherwise be very familiar with.
With summer here at last, we find ourselves engaging more fully with the world around us. Finding meaningful activities in keeping with the warmer season is a great way to keep a loved one active and involved. According to researchers Barbara J. Harmer and Martin Orrell, meaningful activity was found to be “part of human nature, which can provide structure to life and meaning to individuals.
Dancing is something that comes naturally to human beings. Since prehistoric times, dance has been used as a form of expression, celebration, or ritual. Dancing in a social setting causes the release of the chemical in the brain that reduces stress and pain, and is a regular activity at the McCormick Day Program.
