Embracing Spring: 4 Fun Activities for Those Living with Dementia
As the vibrant colors of spring bloom around us, it’s a wonderful time to engage in meaningful and enjoyable activities, especially for those living with dementia. Spring brings a sense of renewal and connection to nature that can be particularly beneficial for cognitive well-being. Here are four fun activities from all of us at The Hummingbird Project for you to consider for a fulfilling springtime experience:
- Nature Walks: Take leisurely strolls (or rolls, if you are in a wheelchair) in parks or gardens filled with blossoming flowers and chirping birds. Encourage sensory engagement by touching petals, smelling fragrant blooms, and listening to the sounds of nature. Consider making a birdseed ornament (Download the instructions here) to take with you to a local park for the birds to enjoy! These walks provide physical exercise and stimulate memories and emotions associated with past experiences in nature.
- Gardening: Engage in simple gardening activities like planting seeds, watering plants, or arranging flowers in pots. Gardening promotes sensory stimulation, encourages fine motor skills, and fosters a sense of accomplishment as plants grow and bloom. Choose easy-to-care-for plants like herbs, succulents, or colorful flowers for a rewarding gardening experience. Here is a link to a great herb garden kit!
- Spring Crafts: Get creative with spring-themed crafts such as making paper flowers, decorating birdhouses, or painting rocks. Crafting activities stimulate cognitive functions like problem-solving, creativity, and fine motor coordination. Displaying the finished crafts can spark conversations and bring joy to both the person with dementia and their caregivers. Here is a simple stepping stone kit to make for the garden.
- Picnics: Enjoy a delightful picnic outdoors with fresh fruits, sandwiches, and treats. Choose a scenic spot with a view of blooming trees or a tranquil lake. Picnics offer a multisensory experience with the sights, smells, and tastes of nature, promoting social interaction and happy memories of shared meals in beautiful settings. If you can’t get outside, don’t be afraid to bring the picnic inside and use a virtual picnic escape video.
Incorporating these activities into daily routines can enhance quality of life and promote positive experiences for individuals living with dementia. Remember to tailor the activities to the person’s interests, abilities, and preferences, creating joyful moments that celebrate the beauty of spring and foster a sense of belonging and happiness.
About the Author
Kari Rogenski, LMFT, is the director of The Hummingbird Project, an in-person concierge and virtual therapeutic activity program. Kari is a licensed psychotherapist and clinical supervisor. She is pursuing her Ph.D. in Humanistic Psychology at Saybrook University, where she studies creativity and gerontology. Follow Kari on Linkedin.
