Art might just seem like a fun hobby for many, but for seniors with Alzheimer’s it can have extensive benefits that can truly change their lives in the following ways:

1. Communication – seniors with Alzheimer’s often struggle to communicate verbally; art gives them a method to communicate non-verbally, expressing their feelings in a way that can act as an emotional release

2. Improved memory and concentration – Alzheimer’s doesn’t eliminate memories, it just limits the pathways that seniors have to access them.  Art can help seniors to access some of these memories, and it generally taps into the skills and abilities that seniors still have, rather than focusing upon what they’re lacking

3. Better sense of well-being – seniors with Alzheimer’s can be difficult when dealing with their caregivers due to lingering frustrations that come with the disease. Art has calming effects which can benefit not only the well-being of the senior, but also the caregiver through increased cooperation

4. Forms a bond – by allowing the senior with Alzheimer’s to tap into elements of themselves and show their abilities, caregivers and family members are reminded that there’s someone that’s still in there

1. AARP

2. USA Today

It’s not uncommon for San Diego seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia to demonstrate combative or agitated behavior. It can occur due to any number of reasons, and caregivers need to help narrow it down to help them learn how to manage the behaviors. Dealing with an aggressive senior is never easy, but caregivers can get through it by following these tips:

1. Try to narrow down the cause of the behavior – ask “who, what, where, when, why?” and try to find commonalities in the situations when the behavior occurs. This will help caregivers to determine if the changes in behavior could be caused by physical discomfort, over-stimulation, confusing surroundings, complicated tasks, or frustrating situations with communication problems

2. Be prepared to soothe and distract – have a memory box, photo and other familiar items ready to soothe or distract the combative and upset senior

3. Watch for signs – be aware of physical signs that they’re becoming agitated; most will be non-verbal and you might be able to defuse the situation before the senior becomes too upset

4. Move it – move to a different environment or a quieter spot if the senior is over-stimulated

5. Slow down your actions – as the senior becomes more upset, he/she is likely to speed up communication and actions in the agitation. Slow down, talk slowly, and you can have a soothing effect

6. Remove dangerous objects – keep sharp, pointy and other dangerous objects in a safe and secure place. If the senior becomes agitated, he/she might accidentally harm themselves or someone else

Via: Wellington Parc

Image: istockphotos.com