Learning Center for Alzheimer's & Dementia: Dementia activity ideas

Many of us enjoy going to the movies as an easy and fun night out. For someone with Alzheimer's or dementia, the fun night out may become less enjoyable. Going to the movies is an enjoyable pastime for many but for someone with dementia, it can be difficult. Here are other ways to get the same pleasure.

Over many years of observation and trial Dr. Montessori designed an entire range of materials to be used in the classroom. Some were based on existing sensory development tools and others through trial error. Learn to use traditional Montessori activities to engage people with dementia and Alzheimer's in this article.

The period between 3pm and mealtime is a time when residents with Alzheimer's or dementia often get anxious - they may want to go home, or be with their children. Everyone does chores around the house and using chore style activities for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia is a great way to engage them. Learn how.

Doing laundry is a part of everyday life for most of us. Health care professionals refer to it as an "instrumental activity of daily living" (IADL). Chore style activities are very effective for people with dementia or Alzheimer's. Learn how to present a simple sorting chore effectively.

One of my favorite parts of the DementiAbility workshop is when we run a reading group. We break into groups of four and everyone experiences how much fun it is to read a book “The Montessori Way”. Montessori reading groups are a fun and meaningful way to engage dementia patients. Learn how to do it effectively.