Caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer’s requires a lot of patience and flexibility while still keeping to a fixed routine. It is challenging but it is important to help a patient feel more relaxed and less confused. Your loved one may be independent with some lapses or may be totally dependent on you. Either way, it is good to try doing some arts and crafts with them as there are many benefits of art therapy. Read on to learn more about the health benefits of arts and crafts for Alzheimer’s patients.
More Socializing
The elderly may tend to withdraw from social activity and isolate which leads to greater loneliness in old age. This is especially true for people suffering from Alzheimer’s. Art and music therapy will help them to reconnect with others and socialize with people around them.
Stabilized Emotions
Arts and crafts can be used as a way to express ourselves. People with Alzheimer’s can find it hard to express their feelings and feel trapped in their bodies. They might be unable to communicate their feelings effectively. With art, they have freedom of expression and they can learn to communicate better.
Stimulate Senses
There is a decline in sensory perception for people who suffer from Alzheimer’s. When they are engaged in arts and craft activities, their senses are stimulated by colors, sound, and textures.
Increased Creativity
According to research, people with Alzheimer’s who do arts and crafts can experience increased creativity. It is beneficial for them to practice their creativity to keep their brains healthy and active.
Greater Recall
Creating art helps to stimulate brain plasticity and create new connections between brain cells. Alzheimer’s erodes the neural pathways in the brain, resulting in loss of memory. Creating art can help in the creation of new neural pathways, allowing for better memory and recall.
Better Mood
Creating and working on arts and crafts can improve the mood of Alzheimer’s patients. Looking at art releases a surge of dopamine in the brain. The physiological pleasure reaction that is experienced is almost immediate. People in hospitals who look at artwork report speedier recoveries and less suffering.
Experience Discovery Village At Boynton Beach
At Discovery Village At Boynton Beach, we have created a world-class senior living community just for you. We provide you with three different options to to suit all your needs: independent living, assisted living, and SHINE® memory care. After reading about the health benefits of arts and crafts for Alzheimer’s patients, you might want to stay at our senior living community where you can take part in fun activities such as arts and crafts and much more. Our committed team is here to give you excellent service and make sure all your needs are met. Feel free to contact us today for more information!
