Enhancing Cognitive Functioning For Seniors With Memory Deficits
Aging adults with dementia or other cognitive problems may struggle with memory problems. This can significantly hinder their ability to maintain their independence, put them at risk for household accidents and injuries, and even lead to prescription medication errors. Here are some ways in-home memory care interventions can help promote optimal recall and better cognition in those with memory deficits.
Games And Photos
The in-home memory care provider can recommend challenging activities that can help improve your loved one's memory. For example, word games and crossword puzzles can help stimulate cognitive function and enhance recall. It is thought that when the brain is challenged, it may have the ability to produce new cells.
Not only can word games and puzzles promote cognitive function and memory recall but they can also help boost the individual's self-esteem when they correctly get the answers right. In addition to puzzles and word games, another activity that helps stimulate memory is looking through family photo albums. This can help evoke pleasant memories for the aging adult and stimulate vivid memories that are associated with the photographs.
Leisurely Walks And Aerobic Exercising
Aerobic exercise helps promote optimal physical health, however, it may also help improve cognitive function and memory. If your aging loved one is unable to exercise or takes walks on their own because of poor memory functioning, an in-home memory care provider can accompany them.
Aerobic exercises such as walking can help promote brain function and it may even slow the progression of future memory loss associated with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. It is thought that walking and other types of cardio exercises enhance blood flow and circulation to the brain, which may help promote the development of new brain cells.
Not only will your senior loved one benefit cognitively from exercising but they may also enjoy the companionship and socialization from taking leisurely strolls with the in-home memory care professional. Many aging adults suffer from loneliness, depression, and social isolation which may further worsen memory problems and sleep disorders in those cognitive deficits.
If your elderly loved one lives alone and has dementia or Alzheimer's disease that is causing memory loss, consider contacting a senior in-home memory care agency to learn more about their services and staff. When proper memory care interventions are implemented, aging adults may enjoy better physical and mental health which may lead to a brighter outlook and more self-confidence.
For more information on in-home memory care, contact a professional near you.