After months of being separated from our aging loved ones that reside in retirement communities, visit restrictions are being eased in many states. One or two family members or other loved ones are permitted to schedule outdoor visits with residents. Visitors are asked to follow the usual health safety protocols including temperature checks, symptoms questionnaires, […]
Tag Archives: activities
Regardless of social distancing, limited get-togethers at restaurants, and all-around new realities of COVID-19, Father’s Day is a special time to recognize those important people in your life: dads, grandfathers, uncles, partners, friends, that person who made you feel safe and that taught life lessons to you as a child. It is fun to get […]
Mother’s Day celebrations this year may be much different for many families than past years. How can we honor and remember our mothers, grandmothers and the other special women in our lives during COVID-19? We’ll need to look for ways to be creative and loving while practicing social distancing to keep our aging loved ones […]
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Assisted Living residents’ days tend to be routine and, sometimes, downright boring. Talking with a client’s daughter this morning, we brainstormed a few great ideas for family members and caregivers to inject some fun and novelty in your loved one’s week. Sending and receiving mail (snail mail using paper, pen and a postage stamp) is […]
Last Friday, mid-morning, I took a client to a department store and to lunch. My client lives in a memory care facility. She has dementia. She also is an 80 year retired English Literature professor, a mom, an aunt, a sister, a friend. She had a career before career women were common. My client likes […]
Memorabilia: the tools, tchotchke and every day items from the decades of our lives. As the holiday season arrives, sooner every year, this gift for loved ones with dementia is a winner. The entire family can help with collecting items to create a meaningful activity that will spark conversation and joy when shared. A few […]
Care partner, according to Dr. Bill Thomas, an expert in the field of dementia care, includes family, friends, neighbors, volunteers, home health professionals, and the elder herself. Effective care partnerships result from meaningful and purpose-filled days. All human beings want to feel useful and engaged regardless of age, disabilities, and life challenges. Dr. Thomas offers a […]
Aging well is as easy as finding everyday activities that bring joy and purpose. Certified care manager Vivian McLaurin shares her perspective on the 55+ active life. “I think of aging as life’s next adventure. I accept getting older but I reject ‘ getting old.’ I believe that growing pains are not only for toddlers and teens […]
Activities are a lifesaver for both care receiver and caregiver. An individual’s life history informs the design of activities programs that will engage your loved one. I visit an 87 year old woman living with dementia. I’ve known her for about two years. We have spent many hours sharing our life stories with each other. […]