Valentine’s Day is often associated with romantic dates for couples. However, this day has far more meaning than simply enjoying a box of chocolates. In fact, this upcoming holiday is the perfect time to show an aging loved one with Alzheimer’s how much he or she is loved. Although your loved one may need a little reminder about this special day, you can use the following activities to make sure he or she feels included.
1. Plan a Pampering Treatment
Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease often respond well to touch, and a few caring strokes during a hand massage or manicure can make them feel loved. If your loved one enjoys going on outings, consider scheduling a beauty treatment such as a haircut. Alternatively, you could arrange for a professional caregiver to give your loved one a manicure at home. Either way, your loved one will feel refreshed, and the soothing touches involved may help him or her stay relaxed throughout the day.
A professional caregiver can help your loved one participate in Valentine’s Day activities and allow you to take a break from your caregiving duties. Mississauga home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
2. Make a Photo Collage
Over the years, your loved one has likely collected quite a few photographs of special moments that have occurred in his or her life. Have a collection of your loved one’s favorite photos printed, and encourage him or her to cut them out and glue them to poster board. As your loved one works, he or she may even enjoy a few spontaneous memories prompted by the photos that you can talk about together.
3. Decorate Valentine’s Day Cookies
This activity can be adjusted to fit your loved one’s current abilities. For instance, a senior in the early stages of Alzheimer’s might enjoy baking a favorite cookie recipe before decorating. Alternatively, you could pre-bake the cookies or use refrigerated dough if your loved one is in the later stages of the disease and is unable to participate in baking. Once you have the cookies ready, help your loved one use icing and sprinkles to make festive treats to share with the people he or she loves.
If you think your elderly loved one is not getting the attention he or she needs, consider hiring a professional caregiver. In Mississauga, ON, home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
4. Create a Memory Box
A collection of items that sparks memories can be helpful for seniors with Alzheimer’s who need reminders of their past experiences. Spend some time picking out items your loved one cherishes, such as an old photograph or piece of memorabilia from an event. Help your loved one place the items into a special box he or she can decorate. After Valentine’s Day is over, your loved one can still enjoy using the box any time he or she wants to look back on favorite moments.
5. Watch a Valentine’s Day-Themed Movie
Movies are a fun way to bond, and you can find a variety of titles based on Valentine’s Day. As you look for a movie, try to pick one from your loved one’s favorite genre or era. Grab some favorite movie treats and enjoy an at-home date together that leads to laughter and fun. If your loved one enjoys socializing, you could make this an even more special event by asking caregivers or friends to come over to watch the movie.
Engaging in Valentine’s Day-themed activities provides your loved one with an opportunity to socialize and boost his or her emotional wellbeing. For families living in Mississauga, ON, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home. Give us a call at 905-337-1200 to learn about our flexible home care plans.