Hula
Hoop
Yes!! Even a person with Alzheimer's can enjoy
exercising with a Hula Hoop. Of course, they must be supervised
and guided to use it at their level. It is easier to do this exercise
activity while sitting in an arm chair. The chair arms provide a
place to grip to help them balance. Grasp the hoop with both hands
and turn it left and right as if you were driving. |
Lifting
exercises
A gallon jug can provide a means of strengthening
muscles by progressively filling it with water to increase the weight.
Even an empty container can offer enough resistance for a frail
person to benefit from. The handle on the container provides a convenient
way to grasp the jug and lift it as much as possible without straining.
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Communication
How many times have you heard that effective
communication is the key to success? It is no different with Alzheimer's.
Improved communication can open the door to participating in activities
and trigger memories. This will improve self confidence and reduce
anger and fear. |
Favorite
Jewelry
Sorting through a jewelry box and finding one
to wear is fun and can bring back good memories and stimulate productive
conversation. Just sorting through them may be enough stimulation
to trigger positive memories. |
Finding
Numbered Items
Finding familiar items in a box can be very stimulating.
In early stage the person can look for a number and identify the
item, or look for an item you asked for and tell you the number.
In later stage, just sorting through the items may help them find
a favorite one. Let them keep the item if is safe for them to use
without supervision. |
Soft
Ball & Balloon Toss
Many soft ball exercises can be very relaxing
at any stage of dementia. Just squeezing the ball can be a satisfying
experience and improve hand and finger strength. Sponge balls can
be used to play catch, roll across a table, or kick back and forth
on the floor. The ball should be soft enough to easily squeeze,
and large enough so it is not a choking hazard. |
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