Q. I’d love to spend more time outside with my mom, but I’m worried her dementia will make enjoying the outdoors a little more difficult. Are there any outdoor activities that you would recommend for individuals with dementia?
A. There are many great opportunities to get outdoors with older adults in any stage of Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia. The good news is that with some modifications based on individual abilities, those with memory loss can enjoy many of the same activities they have always loved! And getting outdoors is one of the best ways you can spend your time together.
Studies have shown time and again that being outdoors can boost physical, mental, and emotional health – for everyone. From improving sleep and reducing depression to boosting the immune system and lowering stress levels, spending time in nature is truly beneficial. Check out these great outdoor activities for seniors with dementia.
1 | Have a Picnic
This is a wonderful way to spend quality time with your loved one while sparking memories from their childhood. Pack a picnic basket with your favorite snacks and savor some time in the sun and fresh air at a local park, or even in your own backyard. While you’re outside, keep an eye out for wildlife or fly a kite together.
2 | Scope Out the Birds
Go bird watching or bring the birds to you with a bird feeder or birdbath. Consider buying a book to help you identify the types of birds you find, or simply enjoy their beautiful melodies.
3 | Enjoy Outdoor Sensory Stimulation
If possible, let your loved one walk barefoot in the grass, play in the sand, or simply feel the cool breeze with a refreshing glass of lemonade on the patio. Cut a few flowers from the garden (or buy them from your local nursery) and put together a bouquet while sitting on the porch. Bring out some seashells from past vacations and talk about them as you sort through them. Outdoor activities can be simple and still provide the wonderful benefits of sunlight and nature.
4 | Tend to Your Own Garden
Gardening is a great activity for seniors with memory loss. Not only does it provide some sensory stimulation, but it also gives seniors a sense of purpose and pride in seeing their plants grow. If you don’t have room for a full garden in the backyard, don’t worry. Even a few small pots on the windowsill can still inspire fun and purpose.
5 | Take Games Outside
Is sundowning making game nights harder to enjoy? Instead of waiting until the evening, take your games outdoors and play in the early morning sun. If your loved one is still mobile, consider simple yard games that your loved one can partake in, such as croquet or cornhole.
6 | Enjoy a Sweet Treat
There’s nothing like ice cream on a hot day. Whether your loved one is savoring a chocolate shake, a root beer float, a classic sundae, or a cone, it’s sure to bring a smile to their face – and yours. Make ice cream sundaes at home together, or if your loved one is up for it, visit your local ice cream shop for a taste of nostalgia.
7 | Get Creative
A little art therapy does a lot of good. Try painting or drawing pictures of a flower or mountain scene together, using simple one-by-one instructions. Or break out the sidewalk chalk and let the grandchildren create some amazing artwork on the driveway for your loved one to enjoy.
We’re Here To Help
The life enrichments at our Bridges® by EPOCH communities are wonderful at creating uplifting, unique activities to help our residents with memory loss thrive. For more ideas on ways to connect and engage with your loved one, reach out to our team. We are happy to provide resources to help in your caregiving journey. You can also find more helpful articles online.
About Alicia
Alicia Seaver is the Vice President of Memory Care Operations for EPOCH Senior Living and a Certified Memory Impairment Specialist. Every month, she addresses a specific issue related to memory and memory care. If you’re interested in hearing about a particular topic, please send a note to [email protected].
Enhancing Quality of Life
Bridges® by EPOCH memory care communities have been developed from the ground up to anticipate, meet and exceed the needs of our residents and their families. Our team of remarkable people, the exceptional care and services we offer, and the purposeful design of our buildings all combine to create the most rewarding, secure and nurturing lifestyle possible for our residents.
Bridges® by EPOCH communities are located in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, in the following towns: Norwalk, CT; Stamford, CT; Trumbull, CT; Andover, MA; Hingham, MA; Lexington, MA; Mashpee, MA; Pembroke, MA; Sudbury, MA; Westford, MA; Westwood, MA; and Nashua, NH.