In the realm of dementia care, socialization within safe environments plays a pivotal role in enhancing quality of life for older adults, and tailored social day programs are designed to cater to the unique needs of individuals living with dementia. This holistic approach not only fosters engagement but also addresses cognitive, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Keep reading as we explore how social day programs empower and uplift those navigating the challenges of dementia with personalized activities such as music, art, reading, and physical exercises.
Music
Losing memories is common for most adults living with dementia. However, music-centered activities at a social day program can help your aging loved one evoke various memories and emotions. Whether it’s listening to music or singing songs, your loved one with dementia can trigger memories from their childhood, teenage years, and adulthood due to the way the activities promote brain plasticity.
Music can also reduce anxiety and depression, leading to better daily functioning and a higher quality of life. Even with cognitive decline, it’s common for seniors living with dementia to remember the words of songs even if they forget names or the words for common objects. The activity uses many aspects of the brain unaffected by neurodegenerative conditions, which strengthens memory and emotional health.
Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia day care provided by Companioa by Institute on Aging (IOA). Our engaging social day program for individuals with dementia features tailored cognitive activities, group exercises, social engagement, and opportunities for artistic expression in a vibrant, modern setting, and our certified dementia care staff ensures your loved one’s safety in a supportive environment.
Art
Having an outlet for communication and self-expression is essential for seniors with dementia, which is why many dementia day programs include art activities. Although many aging adults lose their ability to communicate verbally as dementia continues to develop, programs encouraging art can give seniors different ways to communicate and express themselves, boosting their overall mood.
Dementia day programs typically allow seniors to paint, write, draw on paper, and engage in other artistic tasks. Regardless, the activity encourages older adults to get their thoughts and feelings out in a way that’s tailored for their preferences and comfort.
Even when families have the best intentions, caring for a senior loved one with dementia can be challenging. Fortunately, Companioa by IOA is here to help. Our social day program for dementia offers a modern, safe, and supportive environment while providing much-needed respite for family caregivers. We go beyond cognitive and physical care, fostering belonging and purpose that allows seniors with dementia to truly flourish with dignity and respect.
Reading
Reducing isolation and increasing the mood of an elderly loved one with dementia is easier when encouraging them to take advantage of reading material selected to suit their needs. Reading can preserve language and memory for as long as possible. The type of reading your loved one enjoys will depend on their past preferences and current abilities. However, seniors with dementia can generally continue reading books, magazines, and letters from loved ones.
Physical Activity
The objective of physical activity is to boost your loved one’s overall health, regardless of the stage of dementia. The sense of movement is typically retained even as dementia worsens over time. Whether it’s dancing with other seniors or performing seated routines, physical activities can be tailored safely to suit your loved one’s current level of function. For example, if your loved one is more likely to engage and experience less agitation during the morning and early afternoon hours, their attendance at the social day program could be scheduled between these times to avoid increased stress or irritation.
Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can enjoy a higher quality of life when they join the supportive community at Companioa by IOA’s day care center for dementia, where individuals with dementia can thrive. With support from our specially trained and certified dementia care staff, seniors with dementia can discover joy, companionship, and a revived sense of connection. Our dedicated staff provides mental and social stimulation, daily group exercises, opportunities for artistic expression, fresh homemade meals, and personalized assistance in a modern, safe environment. Call one of our friendly Connect Specialists today at (415) 750-4111 to learn more about our customized social day program.