Cottages residents stay active
Assisted living memory care communities like The Cottages at The Glen provide specialized support for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Beyond medical care and daily living assistance, engaging activities play a crucial role in enhancing residents’ quality of life. Dementia can be isolating, but structured group activities encourage socialization.
Activities at The Cottages are extremely important as they can significantly improve the quality of life for residents by providing a sense of purpose, maintaining cognitive function, reducing agitation, fostering social interaction, and helping them to feel valued and engaged, said Libby Kirkpatrick, resident services coordinator for The Cottages at The Glen.
“Essentially, activities are a key component of managing dementia symptoms and promoting overall well-being,” she said.
Some of the elements addressed in programs at The Cottages include:
Reminiscence
Each morning at The Cottages, residents start out the day by talking about events that happened “This Day In History.” Encouraging residents to share memories through photo albums, music, or familiar scents can spark fun and meaningful conversations. Talking about past experiences helps reinforce identity and connection.
Music and Art
Music has a powerful effect on memory and emotions. An Elvis impersonator and the Shreveport Opera Xpress are among the many guests to perform at The Cottages, and a volunteer plays the piano for residents every Saturday.
“Music is an uplifting tool that always makes the residents smile and reminds them of a time when life was not a life with dementia, but a life when they were young and carefree,” Libby said. “Recently when ‘Elvis’ came to perform, the residents were singing every word and dancing in their chairs, and some even got up and took the floor and danced, with not a care in the world but the music.”
Art activities like painting, coloring, or crafting allow for creative expression, even for those with limited verbal skills. Life Enrichment Coordinator Cindy Sledge leads residents in fun arts and craft programs, often with a theme related to an upcoming holiday.
Gentle Exercise and Movement
Staff-led exercise classes are held weekly at The Cottages. Activities like chair yoga, stretching, and short walks encourage physical health and improve circulation. Movement-based activities may also help reduce agitation and improve sleep patterns.
Games and Puzzles
Simple board games, memory cards, sorting activities, and jigsaw puzzles can be tailored to each resident’s ability level. These activities encourage focus, problem-solving, and engagement.
Gardening and Nature-Based Activities
Gardening, watering plants, birdwatching, or simply sitting in an outdoor space can reduce stress and provide a sense of accomplishment. The Cottages’ courtyard is the perfect environment for residents to partake in outdoor gardening. Activities in memory care communities are vital for maintaining residents’ cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being. The best activities are those that align with residents’ interests, abilities, and past experiences while providing a sense of joy, comfort, and engagement.