Dementia patients need to keep active
The National Institute for Health Care and Excellence (NICE) have recommended dementia sufferers should be offered various activities to help with their wellbeing.
Activities to help dementia sufferers
The recommendation comes after it was found that the symptoms dementia patients suffer can mean they find it hard to engage socially which can have a detrimental effect on their overall health and mental wellbeing, leading to further decline. NICE has said that patients should be allowed access to various activities that fit in with their needs and lifestyle. Gardening, baking, aromatherapy, art and even animal-assisted therapy are among the activities it has suggested.
Carers should tailor the therapy to the individual
Professor Gillian Leng, deputy chief executive and director of health and social case at NICE, has highlighted that people with dementia find it difficult to take part in activities, to live an independent life and can often feel cut off from society. She advises those caring for people affected with the condition that ‘providing enjoyable and health-enhancing activities like music or reminiscence therapy can help’ restore positivity and overall health. She adds that it is important to tailor the activities to the individual, as long as they are suitable, because if they find it enjoyable, they are most likely to engage in it and so make the most of the benefits on offer.
Providing expert care for our residents with dementia
At Allenbrook Nursing & Residential Care Home, our experienced carers are trained in providing the best possible care for those suffering from dementia. We take the time to sit down with the patient and their loved ones to learn more about them, from their diagnosis and care needs to their likes, dislikes and life experiences. We firmly believe in the importance of keeping active in later life and so offer a whole host of different activities and entertainments, including summer BBQs, gardening, armchair exercises and quizzes, and encourage all our residents to participate. We endeavour to cater to everybody’s taste, and we are always on the lookout for new and exciting suggestions.
At Allenbrook Nursing & Residential Care Home, we provide the best possible care for those living with dementia in Hampshire. To learn more about the care we offer, please don't hesitate to contact us on 01425 656589.