Simple but Meaningful Moments
Hanging crisp and clean laundry on a clothesline always made Mom feel good. Dad liked to listen to jazz every evening. They were simple moments, but meaningful parts of each person’s unique story — stories we value and respect at Senior Star. In our memory support communities, specially trained caregivers guide your loved one through programming specifically tailored to them, sparking the memories and connections that make their world bigger again.
Supporting each person’s needs, as well as recognizing who they are and what they enjoy, is what makes memory care at Senior Star such an outstanding choice.
Memory Care Activities That Help Make Life More Enjoyable
Everyone likes to have something to do. And everyone feels better when they accomplish a task. For those living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, engaging in pleasurable and stimulating activities is key to a higher quality of life. The best activities are those that help stir memories and offer opportunities for reminiscing, or encourage self-expression, through art, movement, singing, etc. In addition, memory care activities which help a person feel more engaged and productive are good choices.
It can be as simple as folding a sweater. Untying knots in a rope. Sweeping the hall. Sorting small objects. Helping set the table at mealtime. Baking cookies. Washing a car. These are uncomplicated yet rewarding tasks that may remind your loved one of a role they once enjoyed.
In memory support at Senior Star, we offer a range of activities and programming designed to help residents engage, connect and feel a sense of purpose. Here are just a few:
Music & Memory™
Music can transcend language, and for moments at a time, music can even seem to transcend Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Music can enhance memory, lower stress levels, reduce symptoms of depression, improve sleep, and reduce agitation. Individuals may not only remember songs and melodies, but also be motivated to sway to the beat or even dance as they might have in their youth. Senior Star offers a variety of memory care activities involving music, from creating individual playlists to group music sessions.
Pet Therapy
Bonding with an animal has many physical health benefits. It also enhances emotional health as well and can stimulate pleasant memories of a favorite pet. Just stroking a kitten or puppy releases serotonin, the feel-good hormone, in the body. Pet therapy is always one of the most- loved memory care activities. This is why all of our Senior Star Memory Care campuses have a beloved Community Dog.
Snoelzelen® Multi-Sensory Environment
Snoezelen Multi-Sensory Environments are relaxing spaces that help reduce agitation and anxiety, as well as engage and delight the user, stimulate reactions and encourage communication. Sensory therapy can help build trust between individuals and those closest to them. Other benefits are increased self-esteem and improved mood.
Destination Stations®
Destination Stations are simulations of real-world, everyday activities and locations. They provide your loved one with a sensory experience that may improve movement or range of motion, or maybe just reminisce about a favorite hobby, job or pastime. Examples would be a rolltop desk with a typewriter, a sewing and laundry area, a rocking chair with a baby doll, or a workbench with small objects. They are all ways to help your loved one feel a calming sense of purpose.
Memory Support Backyard
Memory care activities that include gardening and being outdoors can be very beneficial for those living with Alzheimer’s disease or one of the other forms of dementia. At Senior Star, we strive to recreate a sage and enclosed “backyard environment” that lets residents go outdoors and move about, breathe some fresh air, and possibly remember what life was like at home. This can include opportunities to garden, hang clothes on the clothesline, barbecues, meditation benches, and so much more.
Dakim® BrainFitness
Dakim BrainFitness machines are specifically geared toward seniors to provide a fun digital learning experience designed to keep senior minds sharp. These interactive games adjust to match each individual’s ability. The goal is to engage your loved one in an activity that is engaging and fun, as well as beneficial.
A rich and fulfilling life is attainable for those with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. In memory support at Senior Star, we strive to provide purpose and passion every day. Schedule a virtual or in-person tour. You can meet our team and learn more about life in a Senior Star community. And download Just The Facts: You Guide to Memory Care.
Questions about Senior Star and our senior living communities? Contact us.
