Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to change daily life for individuals around the world. For the 518,000 Michiganders providing care for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia here in the Mitten, it means getting even more creative with daily schedules and activities for their loved ones — the more than 190,000 Michiganders living with the disease.
“This is an unprecedented time for our state, nation and world, and we want to be sure to offer caregivers support and guidance as they navigate this ever-changing environment,” said Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Chapter Program Coordinator Kayla Jakel. “There are many things we can do in our own homes and spaces to stay active and engage with our loved ones, including listening to music, working on a puzzle, baking something together and much more.”
According to the Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Chapter, it’s important to take a cue from the person living with Alzheimer’s and consider what they like to do, what they are able to do and what they are in the mood for on any given day.
Here are a few ideas to get started:
Do something inside
- Listen to the person’s favorite music
- Look at family photo albums
- Prepare afternoon tea
- Model with play dough
- Play checkers or dominos
- Name the presidents
- Look at photos in a photography book or magazine
- Identify states on a U.S. map
- Complete a puzzle together
- Read from one of their favorite books
- Watch a favorite movie or sitcom
- Ask the person about his or her childhood, siblings, school, pets or first car
- Read the newspaper together or read it to them
- Play a card game
- Bake cookies or bread
- Set the table
- Make the person’s favorite lunch or snack
- Wash and dry dishes
- Put silverware away
Do something outside (as able)
- Take a walk
- Water plants
- Feed the birds
- Rake leaves
- Play catch or toss a ball
- Sweep the porch or patio
- Set up a picnic on the lawn or in the backyard
- Sit on the porch and drink coffee, hot chocolate or lemonade
Do something virtually*
Animal cameras
Concerts and music
Museums
National parks virtual tours
Puzzles
Reading and writing
Space
Virtual farm
As always, the Alzheimer’s Association is available to individuals 24/7 for around-the-clock care and support at 800.272.3900 or
alz.org.
More information on the status of Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Chapter meetings, events and activities can be found at
alz.org/gmc.
* Please note the above represents a small sample of virtual content and information available. The Alzheimer’s Association does not operate these sites nor facilitate or endorse all content
Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia.™ For more information, visit www.alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.