Understanding Boredom’s Impact on Dementia
Boredom’s impact on dementia can lead to challenging behaviors, but these tips can help family caregivers prevent boredom.
Salt and pepper. Macaroni and cheese. Peanut butter and jelly. Some things are just meant to go together. One combination you want to avoid, however, is boredom and dementia. Studies have revealed that boredom’s impact on dementia results in an increase in:
- Aggression
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Delirium
- Wandering
- Agitation
- Hallucinations
- And more
Not only that but, boredom in family members providing care for someone with dementia is also troubling, resulting in an elevated risk for depression and burnout.
Tips on How to Prevent Someone With Dementia From Becoming Bored
Clearly, preventing boredom is a must. These proven strategies are an excellent place to start.
- Take lots of time for reminiscing. Use photo albums, scrapbooks, and home movies. Browse the internet for top news articles from a certain time frame to discuss together.
- Play the individual’s favorite music through a variety of means: the radio, a playlist, videos of concerts, outings to local school musical programs or the individual’s religious organization to enjoy spiritual songs. Perhaps even plan a karaoke night with friends and family, or a guitar or piano singalong.
- Maintain a journal of which activities were most well received, as well as those that seemed to be of less interest.
- Know what sparks interest, and look for opportunities for engagement accordingly. For example, if the individual’s face lights up whenever they see a dog, explore pet therapy or arrange for regular visits with family and friends who have dogs.
- Since boredom and loneliness often occur together, make sure there are regular opportunities for socializing in accordance with the person’s comfort level. If large groups of visitors are stressful, for instance, ask family members and friends to visit one or two at a time.
- Provide plenty of meaningful activities that build a sense of purpose and self-worth. This might include helping with folding laundry, preparing meals, sorting nuts and bolts in a toolbox, or anything that provides a connection to the individual’s past passions or occupation.
A companion from CareWorks Health Services is a fantastic way to bring a breath of fresh air into the day of somebody with dementia. Our caregivers understand boredom’s impact on dementia and are experienced and highly skilled in creative techniques to boost contentment and engagement for someone with dementia. A caregiver from CareWorks Health Services will add much-needed socialization for your family member, while giving you the chance to step away and take time for yourself.
A few of the various ways we can help include:
- Planning and preparing nutritious snacks and meals
- Assistance with personal care and hygiene
- Providing transportation and accompaniment for fun outings
- Engagement in ability-appropriate activities that offer purpose and help boost memory
- Conversations and reminiscing
- And much more
Contact us online or at (949) 859-4700 to learn more about our customized care solutions in Newport Beach, Laguna Woods, Mission Viejo, as well as the surrounding areas.