My 92-year-old FIL had a tiny stroke 2 years ago. He has some mental restrictions now. He cannot work the microwave or a phone. After 2 years, he can set his thermostat accurately most of the time. He can remember his favorite TV stations and what time his favorite shows are on. His balance is off, he won’t exercise, and he won’t leave his rooms. He doesn’t like to read. All he does is watch TV. He doesn’t like people, but he needs me to spend time with him several times a day.
I am looking for ways to keep his mind active.
I have tried simple large-piece puzzles, but those aren’t working. He will sit and try, he likes the colors and the completed picture, but he cannot put the pieces together unless I hand one to him and show him exactly where it goes. He seems to enjoy sitting with me and trying, but it has to be hard to not get it, though he doesn’t act frustrated. I ask him to look for edge pieces. He seems to forget what his task is because he starts trying to put pieces together, which never go together. He will look for edges for a minute or two and then go back to trying to put pieces together.
He enjoys trying to match Old Maid, UNO and face cards, but with just two of us, it is hard to have him “win”. Games like concentration I think are good for him, but don’t work well if we play against each other.
I hope some of you can suggest activities or tasks that he/we can do while sitting for about a half hour at a time. Things that exercise his mind and gives him a sense of accomplishment.
Thanks.
I let him wash his dishes, though I have to rewash them.
Thank you!
I will try the coloring; I can’t see him doing that, but definitely worth a try.
I think bird feeders are an excellent idea. It could be tricky because we have a lot of high wind. Maybe my neighbors have some ideas.
I do think of myself as his entertainment committee. 😏
https://www.seniorlink.com/blog/activities-for-dementia-patients-50-tips-and-ideas-to-keep-patients-with-dementia-engaged
Good luck........you are a wonderful DIL to be helping your FIL out this way, bravo to you!!!
UtahPilot, Dover has a extensive selection of coloring books, ranging from those for children and those for adults. And it wouldn't even matter if the colors match or anything - he'd be making a choice in selecting the pictures and colors, so there's some element of executive decision making.
I get free sample selections on a weekly basis by e-mail. They're copyright free; I've printed some out and used them to make cards. Samples range from flowers, animals, cars, trucks, and (given your screenname) WWII plants.
Let me know if you want links or specific categories.
I think that dominoes, Chinese checkers, or Tri-ominoes could also work. It doesn't matter if the numbers or colors don't match, it's the idea of creating random combinations that could stimulate him. These games can be played alone; that's what I often do when I need a diversion.
And play soft or his favorite music during activities; it helps induce relaxation.
Link on the health benefits of bingo: https://www.leisurecare.com/resources/why-do-seniors-love-bingo/
He lives in a little trailer next to our house with his two dogs.
Bingo is a good idea.
And he is a western movie man. He has seen most of many, many times.
That and shark tank.
Find things that fit with what he always seemed to like. My mother was always very artistic and loved "creating," so the adult coloring books were perfect for her. Great for the fine motor skills, too.
I don't know if your father would take to this, but my mother the LOVES "balloon ball" game her caregiver plays with her. Quite simple really: get two of those foam swim noodles, a few balloons (they do tend to pop occasionally) and two chairs. Sit about 8-10 ft apart and hit the balloon back and forth. It gets my mom's arms and body moving and helps hand-eye coordination.
zero stress and fun — excellent goals worth striving for. Thank you, bluefinspirit, for your help. 🌸