Creative Activities at Assisted Living Can Help Those with Alzheimer’s

February 4, 2021 by ·

When a person is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or any other type of dementia, there is a long and difficult road ahead of them. That doesn’t mean they have to accept a lower quality of life, though. In truth, people with various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, can certainly have a high quality of life, with the right support. 

In the beginning, shortly after diagnosis, family and friends will gather around to discuss what the future may hold for them and this aging loved one. Assisted living might certainly be a topic to discuss, but it may also be too easily dismissed. 

Memory care assisted living can be a wonderful asset for aging seniors, including those with some form of dementia, including advanced Alzheimer’s symptoms. The reason why assisted living is such an important topic to discuss and consider is the value it offers through activity, socialization, and professional, experienced support on hand 24 hours a day. 

 

What about creativity?

Assisted Living Mobile, AL: Creativity for Seniors With Alzheimer’s

Creativity can be extremely beneficial for those dealing with memory related challenges, such as Alzheimer’s. Some people may not realize it, but mental stimulation has been shown to potentially slow down the progression of memory loss (Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation). 

Creative arts and other outlets can certainly be included in mental stimulation. When you are pursuing something you haven’t done before or are exercising the brain through writing stories, creating artwork, learning to sculpt, discovering how to play the piano, and other outlets, it may help improve memory retention for a while. 

 

It’s also about quality of life. 

As mentioned in the opening paragraph, a person with Alzheimer’s does not need to accept a lower quality of life just because they have received this diagnosis. There will come a time when it is unrealistic and even potentially dangerous, if not downright impossible, for this senior to be on their own, but what about before memory loss reaches that advanced stage? 

At a quality memory care assisted living facility, seniors dealing with Alzheimer’s can enjoy activities that are fun and engaging. They can also reconnect with old friends and make new ones. 

Being surrounded by exceptional support, various creative endeavors, a variety of activities, and even similar comforts of a home without the stress and strain of preparing their own meals, cleaning, and being without physical assistance when needed can offer wonderful peace of mind. 

All of these combined together can lead to a higher quality of life. That’s what memory care assisted living offers those dealing with dementia. 

 

If you or an aging loved one are considering Assisted Living near Mobile, AL, contact Ashbury Manor Specialty Care and Assisted Living at 251-317-3017. 

Filed Under: Assisted Living in Mobile AL, Creative Activities for Alzheimer’s · Tagged: ,
About Cindy Johnson

Ashbury Manor’s Administrator since 2008, Cindy Johnson is a long-time expert in the assisted living field. Prior to her arrival at Ashbury Manor, Cindy managed acquisitions and crisis management for existing and new larger senior care project developments for eleven years. As regional manager for an Oregon-based assisted living management company, Cindy was directly responsible for operations for five 50-65 bed assisted living facilities. As manager during the transition to new ownership, Cindy reorganized internal operations and conducted leadership training for Executive Directors. As a result of her management and expertise, one of the company’s facilities (in Ocala, Florida) received a deficiency-free survey, resulting in the lifting of a moratorium on operation.

A nurse for 36 years, senior care has always been Cindy’s passion. Desiring to work more closely with residents, Cindy became a Category II Administrator in 2005. As Ashbury Manor’s Administrator, Cindy understands the complexities associated with dementia and cognitive impairment and she has fallen in love with seniors with dementia or cognitive impairment and their families.

Cindy is Treasurer of the local “Senior Coalition” chapter. She enjoys mentoring new candidates who want to become administrators.

As a 16-bed facility, with Cindy's training and experience, our residents and their families can be sure Ashbury Manor’s carefully selected staff provides the expertise of a larger facility while maintaining the individualized personal care of a small special needs home.
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