Programming for Memory Care
A typical Memory Care program lasts for 1.5-3 hours, and involves several activities designed to work together to provide a complete enrichment experience. Below is just a taste of some of the elements that we can use to help residents have fun, in an engaging and meaningful way. Just about every Assisted Living program can also be adapted to suit Memory Care too, there really is NO LIMIT!
Physical
Keeping fit and active has positive benefits to our health, both physically and mentally! Our Memory Care physical programs are designed to be accessible and challenging for all residents. We adapt exercises where needed, and can provide alternatives that keep residents engaged. This allows us to work on areas of fitness that are needed most, whether it’s aerobic fitness, weight management, posture and stability, or manual dexterity!
We also use fun indoor games and sports to make the exercise fun! Residents support and cheer each other on as they play in teams or as individuals.
Stretching and Tai Chi classes are also a great way of reducing stress and helping to foster a calm and relaxed environment in your Memory Care Community.
Intellectual
Keeping an active mind is important for our residents wellbeing and feeling of satisfaction, so intellectually minded programming can be a great asset for Memory Care residents. Brain games, testing our reasoning, spatial awareness, memory, logic and math encourage cognitive function and can get feisty! We also use art and music exploration to stimulate creative and emotional thought. Examining how the pieces make us feel, or what it reminds us of, can be a great way of starting discussions where we are able to reminisce, try to access tantalizing memories, and learn something fun about each other along the way.
Creative writing and journaling are another wonderful way of achieving self-expression, and residents are able to work on longitudinal projects, often for the benefit of family!
Creative
All of our arts and crafts projects are designed to be challenging and achievable, with residents being able to take home their creations with pride! Using a variety of supplies and techniques, classes will not just get residents’ creative juices flowing, but provides the opportunity for more tactile and sensory programming. With our food and drink programming, we can get all 5 senses going with tasty treats, bake-free desserts, and chocolate and produce tastings.
