In a previous article, we discussed the importance of sensory stimulation for people living with dementia, highlighting its many benefits. In this article, we will look at some practical examples of sensory stimulating activities. Remember, any sensory activity must take into account the context of the person you are caring for and his/her background and/or former interests. Carefully chosen activities can aid in building a connection with everyday life. Therefore, feel free to adapt these activities to suit the person you are caring for.
1. Introduce objects
Bringing in objects that the person doesn’t normally have access to can be very beneficial, especially if these provide some sort of link to their former life. Examples include sand, seashells, flowers, cooking utensils, grooming tools.
2. Cook a familiar meal
A familiar tasting and smelling meal can evoke vivid memories and emotions.
3. Hand or foot massage
A gentle aromatherapy hand or foot massage involves both the sense of touch and of smell.
4. Take a walk
A short stroll can provide a change of scenery and input for various senses: the sound of leaves rustling in the breeze, the smell of flowers or freshly mowed grass, the texture of a leaf or the bark of a tree, the sights of the garden …
5. Involve them in everyday chores
Folding laundry or washing dishes can, for example, stimulate various senses – think of the smell of freshly laundered clothes or dish soap, the comforting feeling of the warm water or the textures of different fabrics.
6. Read aloud
Read a favourite book or poem to the person with dementia – the soothing sound of your voice together with the familiar words can provide a powerful sensory experience.
7. Play music
Once again, remember that the music must be meaningful to the person you are caring for – perhaps consider playing favourite tunes from his/her youth.
8. Play a game of “guess the smell”
Distinctive flavours such as spices can be used to trigger memories. Fill small, airtight containers with cinnamon, nutmeg, thyme, basil, and other herbs or spices.
9. Create a memory box
Fill a box with personalised items that are precious to the individual. You can include photographs, mementos, their favourite perfume and anything else that may be dear to the person.
10. Sensory blankets
Sensory blankets, also known as fidget mats, are soothing and sensory stimulating. Make a blanket with various kinds of fabric, button flaps, sewn-in wool strands that can be braided, pom-poms, large colourful beads, ribbons, etc. The blanket can be personalised with things that the person would recognise and enjoy touching.
11. Pet therapy
Being around calm animals has mood-enhancing effects which can be very effective when it comes to sensory stimulation of dementia patients.
12. Art therapy
Some dementia patients lose their verbal ability. In such cases art therapy can provide another medium for self-expression. Creating art boosts wellbeing and is a fun and physical sensory activity.
When you create a sensory experience, sit close to make sure the person can see and hear you. Allow the person to explore and experience each item. Talk about the activity with a few simple words that may trigger their memories.
We hope you have found these ideas inspirational! Please feel free to share your own sensory activity ideas for people with dementia – let’s help them to reconnect to a world that is often fragmented and overwhelming.
