Dementia and Coronavirus: Simple Activities to Improve Mental Health

1. Dementia and coronavirus: simple activities to improve mental health As the days seem to roll into one another, the stay-home directives are proving to be most challenging for those with dementia. These are the people who often are in nursing homes and probably feel very lonely as their loved ones are not able to visit them.. Ordinarily, family members would visit their relatives and would be there for their loved ones. Unfortunately, that will no longer be possible everywhere, that is why they are now experiencing distressing times. Elderly affected by dementia have limited ability to understand the information they are receiving about coronavirus which might result in them feeling overwhelmed, restless, frustrated, and anxious. Contact with family is now very important for their wellbeing, as they need compassion and advocacy. Do not to talk too much about the virus, as this may cause agitation. Try to engage them is something purposeful and meaningful. Using these simple measures, can add rhythm to their days and improve their mental health; Create a daily routine Have a set time for various activities, like mealtimes. The best way to develop a routine for the person you’re caring for is to look at the natural flow of your day. You’ll find they tend to rise at a similar time and feel hungry at a similar time each day. Fill in the gaps with structured activities, like crafting, having walks, and taking the time to connect with family and friends. Dementia can lead to unpredictable behaviour, a rhythm will provide the sense of security you will all need to feel more comfortable. As part of their daily routine, you should also have them wash their hands with soap for at least 20 seconds. When this is part of their routine, they will be more likely to remember to do it. If the person can not get to the sink, a hand sanitiser can be an effective alternative.

2. Gardening They might not have the opportunity to go out and enjoy their usual leisurely pursuits, but you can find simple ways for them to stay entertained at home. Gardening is an excellent way to pass the time because it is also well-known to be one of the best activities for those with dementia. Take your loved one outdoors and do some planting and weeding on clear days. Music Music provides stimulation and creates meaning for a person with dementia. Why not make a personal playlist and ask the nursing home to play it in their room? The music they know will give their body a chance to readjust to a calm state of mind. Stay active Exercise is important and fits into their routine, perfectly. If they feel a sense of anxiety, start their day with exercise. Going outside for a walk has a great advantage, both physically and mentally. There are some great online yoga classes they can join. You can also try for them to join an online fitness class tailored for elderly, or enjoy a walk outside. Movement is very helpful for those with dementia, choosing an activity they can enjoy will satisfy two needs at the same time. Keep to a healthy eating plan It’s inevitable that they might eat a bit more than usual and indulge in a few foods they wouldn’t normally enjoy. Counter this with movement and also by filling up on healthy foods at mealtimes. You can actually decrease their cravings for unhealthy foods by introducing lots of fresh produce into their diet. Vegetables and fruit provide your body with everything you need to

3. improve your immune system, too. Preparing meals from scratch will also help to maintain their daily routine. An additional Vitamin C supplement could be beneficial. Let them maintain a good sleep cycle Rest is essential for mental health and happiness. They might not need to wake up early but keeping with regular sleep cycle keeps their mind fresh and mental health intact. Try for them to get 8 hours of sleep per night. If your loved one battles with sleep and experiences a loss of sleep, fit a nap into their day time routine Connect with your loved ones Contacting family and friends regularly will give them a connection to the outside world, and, it provides others with that connection, too. Your loved one with dementia might be accustomed to regular visits which are sadly not possible in these challenging times. Enable these same visits to continue through video calling. Involve the children and grandchildren, too. It might be possible to see your relative by standing or sitting on the other side of the window or glass door. This could be very reassuring for them. Many nursing home residents are having to stay in their room. Send a video, postcard, a photo or a message. This will help them in creating a sense of comfort. Another option is the Virtual Social Centre, a vibrant online community for seniors that provides a simple training program that offers something for everyone like book clubs, seated yoga, games, mind-stimulating activities or art and craft workshops. Memories Bring in a photo album or memories of your relative to reminiscent over or look through. Or bring a puzzle or a much-loved book.

4. Why not send a video with a nice, heartfelt message? It is great because they can play that over and over again. Conclusion Protecting people with dementia from Covid-19 is difficult as there are a number of challenges. Not only around maintaining the basic personal hygiene, but also reducing the stress and anxiety they are undergoing. It is important that family and carers are prepared to support their older loved ones through boredom, loneliness and social isolation during these stressful times. Keeping them engaged in a calming activity is vital to make sure their moods stay elevated. If the anxious feeling come up, acknowledge their feelings and reach out if they need help. Visit: https://www.bettercaremarket.com.au/