Engaging Pursuits for Elderly Blind Individuals Living with Dementia
In an effort to improve the quality of life for blind seniors with dementia, a variety of activities have been found to offer cognitive, emotional, and entertainment benefits. These activities are designed to cater to the sensory limitations of this population, while also supporting cognitive function, emotional well-being, and providing enjoyment tailored to their unique challenges.
Music Therapy
Playing familiar songs, using musical instruments, or singing along can stimulate memory and improve mood, offering comfort and joy. This form of therapy is a powerful medium for self-expression for seniors with dementia, fostering a sense of joy and connection with the rhythm of life [1].
Tactile Games and Crafts
Engaging in activities like working with soft clay, textured materials, or large-piece puzzles designed for touch can help maintain fine motor skills and cognitive function without relying on vision [1].
Storytelling and Audiobooks
Listening to audiobooks or family members telling stories fosters emotional connection and cognitive engagement through auditory stimulation. This is a great way for seniors to maintain a sense of connection with their loved ones and the world around them [1].
Scent-Based Activities
Using essential oils, scented herbs, or baking to involve the sense of smell provides grounding and soothing sensory stimulation. This can be a calming and therapeutic activity for seniors [1].
Sensory Walks
Even indoor guided walks involving safe textures, sounds, and smells support mobility and sensory engagement in a gentle way [1].
Simple Crafts and Adapted Games
Activities such as knitting or tactile art projects help maintain fine motor skills and creativity in a non-visual way. E.g., adapted puzzles or sorting activities provide cognitive stimulation suited to dementia [4].
When planning activities for this population, it's important to keep tasks simple, repeatable, and use familiar voices or routines to create safety and emotional comfort [1].
Dancing, Tandem Cycling, and Podcasts
Dancing is not only a fun way to exercise but also a powerful medium for self-expression for seniors with dementia. Dance sessions can be arranged where seniors can hold hands with partners or caregivers for safety and enjoyment [2]. Tandem cycling allows seniors to feel the wind in their hair, stay active, connect with nature, and enjoy the companionship of a shared adventure [5]. Podcasts offer contemporary auditory pleasure with a wide range of genres, stimulating mental faculties and fostering a sense of connection [6].
Accessing Resources
A talking book reader can be obtained through local Associations for the Blind and the Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) system, providing access to a world of free books and magazines [3]. Old-time radio shows offer a sense of nostalgia and are easily accessible through local libraries or online platforms [7].
By combining these activities, we can enhance quality of life by combining stimulation across senses, promoting social connection, and providing enjoyment tailored to blindness and dementia challenges. Joining a support group for the visually impaired allows seniors to engage in meaningful conversations, share stories, and build a sense of community [8]. Support group gatherings for the visually impaired are often held in outdoor settings, offering a breath of fresh air and a chance to connect with others facing similar challenges [9].
[1] Alzheimer's Society, (2020). Activities for people with dementia. [Online] Available at: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/activities-for-people-with-dementia
[2] Moula, J. (2019). Dancing with dementia. [Online] Available at: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/dementia-and-you/living-with-dementia/activities-and-entertainment/dancing-with-dementia
[3] Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), (2020). Talking books and magazines. [Online] Available at: https://www.rnib.org.uk/products-and-services/audio-books-and-talking-books/talking-books-and-magazines
[4] Alzheimer's Society, (2020). Activities for people with dementia. [Online] Available at: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/activities-for-people-with-dementia
[5] Moula, J. (2019). Tandem cycling with dementia. [Online] Available at: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/dementia-and-you/living-with-dementia/activities-and-entertainment/tandem-cycling-with-dementia
[6] Alzheimer's Society, (2020). Activities for people with dementia. [Online] Available at: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/activities-for-people-with-dementia
[7] Moula, J. (2019). Old-time radio shows. [Online] Available at: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/dementia-and-you/living-with-dementia/activities-and-entertainment/old-time-radio-shows
[8] Alzheimer's Society, (2020). Support groups. [Online] Available at: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/support-groups
[9] Alzheimer's Society, (2020). Support groups. [Online] Available at: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/support-groups
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