As we get older, our chances of developing dementia and other memory issues increase. However, there are activities for dementia that patients can undertake to manage their condition and even show improvement over time. In this article, we’ll be discussing the effects of writing poetry for dementia patients
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a word used to describe the poor memory, thinking, or decision-making that interferes with performing daily tasks rather than a specific disease. As far as dementia goes, Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent. Despite the fact that dementia primarily affects older people, it is not a natural aspect of aging.
Treatment for Dementia
The underlying cause of dementia affects how it is treated. Although there is no known cure for neurodegenerative dementias like Alzheimer’s, there are drugs that can help preserve the brain or control symptoms like anxiety or behavioral abnormalities. There is ongoing research to create more therapeutic alternatives.
Other forms of non-medical therapy, such as dance and creative writing, can help with dementia as well.
A healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and maintaining social connections, lowers the risk of chronic disease development and may lower the likelihood of dementia worsening.
How Can Art Therapy Benefit Those with Dementia?
Art therapy is useful for dementia patients, according to research. Art therapies engage the patient’s interest, are enjoyable, and may lessen symptoms like apathy and anxiety.
A better understanding of the person with dementia’s own feelings can also be gained through the creation of art. Art can give dementia sufferers a creative outlet they might not otherwise have, especially if they struggle with speech or language.
Participatory arts can strengthen the bonds between a dementia patient and their caregiver. Also, it can promote a stronger sense of community.
Why Poetry is Important
Poetry gives you freedom of expression and can enrich what starts off as a prose, by adding warmth and depth.
Participants access specific images or memories from their lives through poetry and piece these fragments together. Many of the poems that older adults with dementia learned by heart as children are still accessible. Writing poetry, as part of the activities and events available at their retirement community can stimulate recall and help them manage their condition.
A Dedicated Care Program for Dementia Patients
In our community, we are aware of the struggles people with dementia face. We will guide and nudge them toward a people-oriented approach that is on par with the best in the country through our Memory Care community.
The Alzheimer’s Association®, the nation’s top nonprofit health organization devoted to Alzheimer’s care and research, has awarded our SHINE® Memory Care program curriculum a National Certificate of Recognition. We share this distinction with a select few memory care providers in the United States.
For the wellbeing of your loved ones who suffer from dementia-related illnesses including Alzheimer’s disease and other memory-related disorders, SHINE@ employs a personalized approach to memory care based on scientific concepts that are engaging, thorough, and living excellence. Consider memory care today!
