Category: Assisted Living

Engaging in thoughtful activities can be incredibly beneficial for seniors living with dementia. Not only do these activities provide mental stimulation, but they also help foster emotional connections, provide a sense of accomplishment, and encourage moments of joy. 

Such activities can strengthen bonds and create meaningful shared experiences for caregivers and families. 

Here, we explore several activities, such as memory boxes, gardening, art, music therapy, and more, designed to enrich the lives of seniors with dementia while promoting a sense of belonging and connection. 

Memory Boxes 

A memory box filled with familiar items from a senior’s past can inspire reminiscing and storytelling. This might include photographs, favorite trinkets, or objects tied to a beloved hobby or career. Handling these items helps stimulate memory recall, and sharing the stories behind them encourages interaction and connection between seniors and their families or caregivers. 

Gardening 

The simple act of planting seeds or tending to flowers can provide relaxing sensory experiences for seniors. Gardening allows them to engage with nature while also promoting physical activity. Even small indoor plants, like potted herbs, can bring a sense of accomplishment and joy. 

In addition, gardening can foster social interaction. Seniors may enjoy sharing their gardening experiences and knowledge with others, creating a sense of community.

Art Projects 

Painting, coloring, or crafting are therapeutic activities that allow seniors to express themselves. Art helps reduce stress, encourages creativity, and provides a wonderful outlet for emotions, which is especially important for those struggling with verbal communication. 

Music Therapy 

Music has an incredible ability to stir memories and emotions. Play music from the person’s favorite era, sing along to familiar tunes, or simply enjoy listening together. Research has shown that music can help reduce anxiety, improve mood, and even spark cognition in seniors with dementia. 

Simple Puzzles & Games 

Puzzles and games tailored to their level of cognition, such as large-piece puzzles or games like bingo, can engage their minds in a fun, stress-free way. Stimulating cognitive activity is essential, and games with clear instructions help eliminate confusion. 

Cooking or Baking 

Cooking and baking activities involve multiple senses, such as smelling, tasting, and touching, and are excellent for creating meaningful experiences. Simple recipes, such as baking cookies or preparing a fruit salad, can be both stimulating and nostalgic. 

Gentle Physical Exercise 

Encourage light, enjoyable exercise activities like stretching, chair yoga, or slow strolls. Physical movement is not only beneficial for physical health but also enhances mood and encourages better sleep. Dancing to music can also combine physical exercise with the joy of music! 

Sorting Activities 

Sorting activities, such as organizing buttons, coins, or colorful objects, can be calming for seniors with dementia. These tasks provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment while stimulating concentration and fine motor skills. 

Reading or Storytelling 

Reading books or poetry together can provide a peaceful bonding experience. If traditional reading isn’t an option, picture books or audiobooks are wonderful alternatives. Sharing real or imagined stories also fosters creativity and sparks positive emotions. 

Pet Therapy 

Spending time with a gentle pet or even stroking a plush therapy animal has been shown to reduce stress and promote feelings of happiness. Animals provide unconditional affection and can help seniors feel grounded and present in the moment. 

Why Structured Activities Matter 

Activities play a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for seniors with dementia, providing them with a sense of purpose, connection, and mental stimulation. Here’s how these activities make a difference.

Benefits of Engaging Activities for Seniors with Dementia:

• Sense of Purpose: Engaging in meaningful activities helps seniors feel valued and needed, while structured routines can bring stability and a sense of achievement.
• Reducing Anxiety: Familiar activities can soothe feelings of restlessness and agitation. Mindful practices, such as music or art therapy, can create a calming environment.
• Improving Communication: Activities encourage social interactions, promoting verbal and non-verbal communication, while shared experiences can strengthen bonds between seniors, caregivers, and family members.
• Creating Moments of Happiness: Participation in enjoyable activities fosters joy and laughter. Successful moments in activities can uplift mood and create positive memories.
• Tailored Experiences: Activities should be customized to align with individual abilities and interests, ensuring engagement
• Positive and Unpressured Environment: Activities should be enjoyable and relaxed, avoiding competition or pressure to perform. Encouragement and support from caregivers can enhance the experience.
• Fostering Strength, Belonging, and Purpose: Finding meaning and joy in simple activities, such as gardening, baking, or playing games, enriches daily life. Group activities can also foster a sense of community and belonging among residents.

At NorBella Senior Living, we are dedicated to creating opportunities for seniors and their families to share these meaningful experiences. We believe that by focusing on connection, happiness, and personal growth, we can help each resident thrive in their own unique way.

Discover Supported Dementia Care at Norbella 

We understand the unique challenges dementia can bring and are here to offer support every step of the way. At NorBella Senior Living at Champlin, our memory care programs focus on creating safe, engaging environments where seniors can thrive, and families can find peace of mind. 

If you’re looking for additional resources or personalized care options for a loved one with dementia, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our approach to supportive memory care. 

The right assisted living community can enhance your loved one’s quality of life by offering services, amenities, and events that suit their needs and interests.

When choosing an assisted living community, consider:

• Your loved one’s needs
• Comparing options
• Costs and finances

You should also involve your loved one throughout the process. Even after moving to the new community, you should continue to evaluate how your loved one feels.

Define Your Needs & Priorities

The first step is to understand your loved one’s specific needs. It’s important to outline what matters most before you start your search. Key considerations might include:

• Level of Care: Does your loved one require help with daily activities like mobility, bathing, dressing, or medication management? Or are they primarily looking for a safe and engaging environment with minimal assistance?
• Social Opportunities: Are there recreational activities, events, and programs to foster interaction and engagement?
• Proximity: Is the community close enough to loved ones for regular friends and family visits?
• Budget: What is the monthly budget for living expenses? Be sure to assess what’s included in the pricing—such as meals, housekeeping, and utilities.

By clearly defining priorities upfront, you’ll be in a better position to narrow down the list of potential communities.

Research & Compare Communities

Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to research and compare communities. Start by creating a shortlist of communities in your preferred area. Resources like senior living directories, online reviews, and referrals from friends and healthcare professionals are great places to start.

When evaluating each option, pay attention to these factors:

• Staff and Expertise: Look for communities with experienced and compassionate staff. Explore community websites and videos to get a sense of their community, and read reviews to see how current residents and families feel about the care they receive.
• Living Spaces: Examine and consider the size and layout of apartments or rooms. You should also consider how much natural light gets in, as natural light can improve mood and mental health.
• Dining Options: Good nutrition is critical, so it’s important to understand the dining services offered. Can dietary restrictions or preferences be accommodated? Do they offer fresh, nutritious, and delicious meals?
• Amenities and Activities: Many assisted living communities offer a variety of amenities and activities, from libraries and bingo nights to scheduled outings and barbecues. Check the community’s program schedule to see if activities align with your loved one’s interests.

Make note of how each community aligns with your list of priorities. This will help you evaluate your options.

Schedule Visits

There’s no substitute for visiting a community in person. Scheduling a tour allows you to experience the environment firsthand, interact with staff, and ask important questions.

When touring potential communities, consider the following:

• Cleanliness and Atmosphere: Does the community look clean, welcoming, and well-maintained? Are the residents and staff friendly and happy?
• Staff Interaction: Observe how staff interact with residents. Do they treat them with respect and patience? You can also consider the staff-to-resident ratio.
• Safety Measures: Look for safety features like emergency call systems, grab bars, and secure pathways indoors and outdoors.
• Engagement: Are residents actively participating in programs and social activities during your visit?

Don’t hesitate to bring a list of questions to ask during the tour. Some important questions include:

• What kind of training do staff members receive?
• How are medical needs managed on-site?
• Are there visiting rules? How flexible is the schedule for family visits?
• What is the process for handling emergencies?
• Can I try the meals during the visit?

Taking detailed notes and comparing different communities after visiting them will help clarify which one feels like the best fit.

Understand Costs and Contracts

Assisted living costs vary widely depending on location, services, and amenities. It’s essential to understand exactly what you’re paying for and what’s included.

Ask for a breakdown of fees, including:

• Monthly rent
• Meal plans
• Utilities
• Care services
• Additional fees (such as transportation or special dietary needs)

It’s also important to ask how pricing might change over time. Are rate increases decided on annually? 

Study the contract carefully before signing, and don’t hesitate to involve an attorney to review the document if necessary.

Engage Your Loved One in the Process

When choosing an assisted living community for a loved one, it’s vital to include them in the decision-making process as much as possible. After all, this will be their home, and their preferences should be taken into account. Encourage them to ask questions, share their impressions, and voice any concerns.

By making them an active participant, you help them feel more empowered and more confident about the transition.

Evaluate Continuously After Moving

The process doesn’t end once the decision has been made. It’s important to evaluate whether your loved one remains happy and well-cared for after moving in. Regularly visit the community and communicate with staff to monitor how your loved one is adjusting to their new lifestyle.

Your Path to the Right Choice

Choosing an assisted living community is a significant decision, but with the right approach, it can lead to a safe, nurturing, and joyful environment for yourself or your loved one.

Norbella Senior Living in Savage offers an assisted living lifestyle that focuses on the resident. Our team is here to help your loved one through personalized care, social programming, and various services and amenities. is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your tour and see how we can support you and your loved one.