For more information about the author, click to view their website: Grace Pointe
Just like all of us, seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia benefit from feeling engaged and participating in activities that allow them to be productive. Many memory care communities, like the one here at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community in Greeley, offer specialized memory care activities and entertainment to help stimulate the brain and inspire feelings of accomplishment among our residents who have a form of dementia.
According to the World Health Organization, 55 million people live with a form of dementia worldwide and there are nearly 10 million new cases every year. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which contributes to 60-70% of all cases. Dementia disease symptoms are different in every person, but usually can affect all or various combinations of memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, calculation, learning capacity, language, and judgment. As a result of experiencing all of these symptoms, seniors can also feel changes in mood, emotional control, behavior, or motivation.
At Grace Pointe, we have found that a memory care community with a variety of personalized activity offerings helps to inspire purpose and accomplishment among our residents. Here are some of the memory care activities and specialized support we utilize within our community to help keep our residents engaged and inspired in our facility.
Music has numerous benefits for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia diseases. In fact, music has been shown to have effects on improving understanding, mood, behavior, and communication, according to several studies by the National Library of Medicine on music intervention for Alzheimer’s disease.
At Grace Pointe, music is just one of many memory care activities our community integrates into our residents’ care plan. Here are some of the ways we utilize the sounds of music to benefit our memory care residents:
As caregivers at memory care communities start to understand how the musical interests, tempo, and dynamics affect the mind and body of each resident, communication becomes easier. The benefits of music as a therapy for senior residents with dementia can be endless.
Another engaging activity commonly utilized in memory care communities for seniors, believe it or not, is watching videos. The benefits of watching videos for seniors with dementia are one of the integral forms of memory care activities that cannot be ignored. The stimulation alone through different faces, shapes, colors, and sound engages seniors’ brains on a whole new level.
At Grace Pointe, some of the best ways we have found to integrate this memory care activity are videos of familiar memories. Showing familiar locations and people transports seniors with dementia and helps to calm them. The best ways we have found to do that is through old home movies, showing old movies from the 1940s-1980s, and playing recorded historical events, like the moon landing or WWII videos.
It’s no coincidence that you find puzzles, games, and arts and crafts centered around the common areas in almost every senior care community. In addition to watching videos for stimulation, there are many memory care activities that can help to combat boredom without a screen.
Keeping residents with dementia entertained and stimulated works to combat boredom, which can lead to increased restlessness, wandering, and anxiety. Activities such as picture puzzles, word searches, and games, providing old magazines for residents to create collages, or providing multicolored clay or play dough for them to mold into something new, help offer a creative outlet for seniors with memory issues.
Regardless of the kind of dementia, all residents want to feel like they are a part of a community or bigger purpose. So, in addition to integrating various activities personalized to each resident’s interests, group activities are also important for seniors in memory care communities. Some fun ideas are to create bingo nights, costume parties, community gardening activities, and even an event around a ‘fun holiday’ like “National Doughnut Day” or “National Puzzle Day.” The purpose is to bring everyone together toward a common goal or celebration to add excitement and belonging to a variety of residents.
We hope this article has helped you understand how important ongoing engagement and stimulation are for senior loved ones experiencing Alzheimer’s or dementia disease symptoms. Memory care activities like music, video, and arts and crafts, need to be both personalized to their interests, yet offer them a sense of purpose to capture their interests and stimulate their minds.
At Grace Pointe, we offer specialized support for our memory care residents. From Alzheimer’s to other forms of dementia, our staff cares for the varying needs of an individual’s diagnosis. Your loved ones’ needs may become more complex as time goes on, so we provide activities designed to tap into the interests and skills of our residents through memory care activities and outings to complement the care provided to them daily.
When you’re ready, schedule a tour with one of our compassionate caregivers, and let’s see if Grace Pointe is right for you or your loved one. Please call us today with any questions, 970-304-1919.
Step into The Gallery at North Port, where the stories of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and vibrant personalities converge to create an unparalleled living experience. Much like a traditional gallery that showcases art to inspire and connect, The Gallery takes this concept further by celebrating the residents themselves as the cherished works of art within its walls.In this unique haven, residents are revered and their stories shared among a close-knit family of friends. The ethos of The Gallery revolves around recognizing that each individual is a masterpiece in their own right, and the community is a canvas that enriches and amplifies their narratives.Celebrating You as the MasterpieceAt The Gallery, every resident is recognized as a unique masterpiece. The community celebrates the diversity of stories, backgrounds, and experiences, fostering an environment where residents feel appreciated and valued for their individuality. The Gallery's team understands that personal stories are the heartbeats of the community, and they are dedicated to adapting and catering to individual preferences, ensuring that residents continue to lead lives on their own terms.Different Levels of Lifestyles and CareOne of the hallmarks of The Gallery at North Port is its commitment to offering various levels of lifestyles and care, recognizing the distinct needs and preferences of each resident. Whether residents seek independence, personalized support, or specialized memory care, The Gallery provides tailored options that allow vibrant connections to flourish while ensuring that every day holds something new and enriching to become a part of their unique story.Spaces That Embrace ConnectionThe Gallery isnt just a place to reside; it's a canvas that invites vibrant connections and meaningful interactions. Its enticing spaces are designed to foster gatherings and appreciation, not just of the physical environment but of the greatest masterpiece the residents themselves. From cozy corners to community areas buzzing with activity, every space encourages residents to engage, connect, and celebrate lifes moments together.Enriching Lives Through Shared ExperiencesHere, life is a canvas waiting to be painted with shared experiences. Residents are invited to embark on a journey where every day unfolds new chapters in their stories. Whether it's engaging in creative activities, savoring culinary delights, participating in events that inspire, or simply enjoying conversations with friends, The Gallery ensures that each moment contributes to a richer, more vibrant tapestry of life. The Gallery at North Port stands as a testament to celebrating individuality, fostering connections, and providing a canvas for residents to live their lives as the cherished works of art they are. In this community, every story is revered, and every resident is the masterpiece that enriches the greater narrative of this vibrant living experience.
In the realm of senior therapy, the integration of music and arts stands out as a transformative approach to holistic well-being. Recent studies highlight the profound cognitive benefits that music can offer to seniors, from stimulating memory recall to enhancing overall cognitive function. Whether through familiar melodies that evoke cherished memories or the joy of learning a new instrument, music becomes a powerful tool for self-expression and connection, particularly for seniors facing cognitive decline. Simultaneously, engaging in visual and performing arts provides an avenue for creative expression, offering a sense of accomplishment and purpose. The emotional impact of these creative endeavors is equally significant, alleviating feelings of loneliness and fostering a sense of community through shared experiences in choir singing or art classes.In essence, the incorporation of music and arts into senior therapy transcends mere entertainment, becoming a vital aspect of promoting the overall well-being of older individuals. By tapping into the creative spirit, seniors can find avenues for cognitive stimulation, emotional connection, and a renewed sense of purpose. As society recognizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to senior care, the role of music and arts in therapeutic practices emerges as a valuable and enriching endeavor for the aging population, contributing to a fulfilling and vibrant later life.
As we journey through life, many people find themselves facing one of the most pressing concerns: ensuring that they provide care and support to their loved ones, particularly their aging parents, as they transition into their senior years. Long-term senior care frequently raises questions and concerns, with one of the most common worries being, What if my parents run out of money?The cost of senior care services can indeed be a significant burden on families. Many are apprehensive about the affordability of these services and the potential financial strain they might impose. This is where a comprehensive continuum of care approach, like the one offered by Grace Pointe of Greeley, can make all the difference.Tailored Care for Your Unique NeedsOur team of experienced care professionals adopts a personalized approach to assess the specific care needs of each resident. We commit to ensuring that you dont pay for services that you or your loved one dont need. This ensures that you wont bear unnecessary costs, and your loved ones will receive the appropriate level of care to enhance their quality of life.If the affordability of long-term senior care concerns you, Grace Pointes approach is here to help. We dedicate ourselves to providing the right care at the right cost, supporting both your financial peace of mind and your loved ones well-being.To learn more about our long-term senior care services and our continuum of care approach, visit our Grace Pointe of Greeleys Long-Term Senior Care Services page.Frequently Asked Questions About Long-Term Senior CareAt Grace Pointe, we understand the financial concerns that come with long-term senior care, and were here to put your mind at ease. Our continuum of care services is designed to ensure affordability while providing your loved ones with the precise level of care they need. We understand that every individual is unique, and their care requirements can vary greatly which is why we have compiled this list of FAQs about long term senior care services below.What is long-term senior care, and when is it needed?Long-term senior care is a comprehensive service designed to provide assistance and support for seniors who may require help with daily activities due to age-related challenges or medical conditions. It becomes necessary when individuals find it increasingly difficult to maintain their independence and well-being.How do I know which type of long-term senior care is suitable for my loved one?Our experienced care professionals at Grace Pointe will assess your loved ones individual needs and recommend the most appropriate level of care. We believe in personalized care plans to ensure your loved one receives the best possible care.What is the cost of long-term senior care at Grace Pointe, and how can I afford it?The cost of long-term senior care varies depending on the level of care and services required. Grace Pointe offers a continuum of care approach, ensuring you only pay for the care your loved one needs. We will work with you to explore financing options, including community resources for Medicaid and Veterans benefits, to make care more affordable.Can I visit my loved one in long-term senior care at Grace Pointe of Greeley?Yes, we encourage family visits and understand the importance of staying connected. We also encourage you to enjoy activities and events to see the life of Grace Pointe experienced by your family members. There are some guidelines for visiting after hours to ensure the safety and comfort of the Grace Pointe residents, which can be discussed with our staff.How can I learn more about Grace Pointes long-term senior care options?You can explore more details about our long-term senior care services on our Long-Term Care Services page. Feel free to contact our team for specific information and to request a tour.How can Grace Pointe of Greeley help ensure that I dont pay for services my loved one doesnt need in the long term?At Grace Pointe, we understand the importance of affordability in long-term senior care. We offer a continuum of care approach, which means we tailor care plans to your loved ones specific needs. By doing so, we ensure that you only pay for the necessary services, maximizing affordability while maintaining high-quality care. Can I modify my loved ones care plan if their needs change over time?Yes, we understand that care needs can change. At Grace Pointe, we regularly review care plans and adjust them to accommodate changing requirements to ensure your loved one receives the best care.For answers to common questions about long-term senior care and all our services, visit our FAQ page.Dont let financial concerns hold you back from providing the best care for your aging parents. Grace Pointe of Greeley is here to support you every step of the way. Reach out to our care team with any other questions you may have about your familys care.
Grace Pointe Continuing Care Senior Campus offers a variety of comfortable living options, as well as in patient and out patient rehabilitation. With our team of experienced healthcare professionals, Grace Pointe provides a continuum of care, including independent & assisted living, memory care, long term care & skilled rehabilitation, featuring private suites with private baths & showers. Four separate neighborhoods feature separate entrances, dining & living rooms.
Grace Pointe Continuing Care Senior Campus offers a variety of comfortable living options, as well as in patient and out patient rehabilitation. With our team of experienced healthcare professionals, Grace Pointe provides a continuum of care, including independent & assisted living, memory care, long term care & skilled rehabilitation, featuring private suites with private baths & showers. Our Rehabilitation Center offers Physical, Occupational and Speech therapies available for Inpatient and Outpatient.
Grace Pointe Continuing Care Senior Campus is a senior care community offering a variety of comfortable living & rehabilitation options in N. Colorado. With our team of experienced healthcare professionals, Grace Pointe offers independent & assisted living, memory care, long term care & skilled rehabilitation, featuring private suites with private baths & showers. Our full service Rehabilitation Center offers Physical, Occupational & Speech therapies - inpatient or outpatient services.