Reflections' Memory Care Activities

Humans are multifaceted beings. While we all have basic needs of food, water, shelter, and clothing, we are much more than that.

The same is true for those living with dementia. 

A Whole Person Approach to Memory Care Activities

In Reflections Memory Care, we focus on 6 specific areas of mental and physical wellness: Intellectual, Social, Environmental, Physical, Spiritual, and Emotional.

We show respect and dignity for their individuality when we address the whole person by meeting these needs.

Intellectual

 
Preserving and engaging the person at each individual level. In our Great Start Meeting, we begin the day with orientation. To some individuals, the date matters; to others, it doesn’t. Either way, they enjoy listening and being present. We discuss "this day in history" events, read and discuss poetry, and play games such as “Name 5.” In this game, players name objects that correlate to a particular subject - five things you’d find in a kitchen, for example.

A while later, during “Me Time”, we offer individual activities to meet that person’s specific intellectual needs. These activities are chosen by the individual – depending on their interests, they may choose word puzzles, reading material, or word and trivia games.

Social

Isolation is one of the largest contributing factors to the progression of dementia. Our residents eat their meals together in the dining/family room, with usually two or more people seated at a table. Dining in a congregate setting not only provides opportunities to socialize but can also help increase appetite. Our program is designed to promote interaction between the residents themselves and the supporting staff.

Another helpful way to avoid isolation and loneliness is to have a roommate. We have found that sharing a room is particularly comforting for those from large families who may have done so growing up.

Environmental

Setting the mood. Think of a favorite restaurant you’ve been to. Is it just the food that makes it special someplace? How does the ambiance make you feel? A great deal of planning and thought goes into developing a successful and enriching Memory Care Environment. Each of the five senses - sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch - is integral in meeting a person’s needs.

Our energetic morning program, "The Buzz," starts the day with cheery morning greetings as the residents finish breakfast. The music is upbeat, the smells are fresh and energizing, and the lighting is bright, with lots of outdoor sunlight filtering in.

In the later afternoon hours, some people living with dementia may experience increased confusion or an upset in their internal body clock – referred to as sundowning. With this in mind, we slide into our "Afternoon Mellow Mood" as the afternoon progresses. The music is quieter, usually instrumental, with serene scenes scrolling through on the TV – similar to digital photo albums. Afternoon activities are more serene and calming – items such as therapy dough, water manipulatives, and nail spas are some of the items residents will choose.

Physical

Staying physically active is vital to maintaining health and wellness, but that doesn't necessarily mean we all jump at the chance to exercise. Those living with dementia can feel the same way. However, when exercise is disguised as a fun activity, we may not realize we're actually exercising because we’re too busy having fun.

We use this approach to keep our residents physically active - with a program we call "Jump & Jive". Chair Kick Ball is a great example; players sit in chairs arranged in a large circle and kick a large exercise ball back and forth. This game is one of our residents’ favorites – always lots of smiles in that circle! Chair Dancing, Music and Movement, Parachute Toss, Balloon Bop, and Noodle Hockey are a few other games we use to keep residents physically active.

Spiritual

Meeting the needs of the soul. Each week, our chaplain shares worship music and leads Bible Study in an interactive way that engages residents. As part of our Great Start Meeting, we share a devotion with the residents each morning.

To successfully meet our residents' spiritual needs, we speak with their families and loved ones to understand each individual’s religious or spiritual needs and preferences.

Emotional

Comfort and affirmation. The need to be heard, affirmed, and comforted is universal. The journey with dementia can be an anxious road to walk for both the individual and their family. Everyone needs to communicate and feel validated, even if what they say doesn’t make sense to those around them. Our staff is well-trained and adept at soothing anxieties and redirecting conversations - which leads to a more positive outcome for the resident. We include a 15-minute meditation each day to help quiet the mind and promote emotional well-being.

The team at Reflections Memory Care is continually learning, adapting, and growing, searching for new and better ways to serve our residents. As new methods, technologies, and creative solutions emerge, we incorporate them into our program - always with a whole-person approach.

Learn More: Reflections Memory Care in Phoenix

Are you ready to speak to someone directly? Please call 602-833-4330 or email us; we look forward to meeting you!