November 2022 Blog – A Month of Gratefulness
Tuesday, November 1, 2022
November is a month of seasonal change, a change in color and fragrances. It is also a time of connection, as families re-unite around the Thanksgiving tradition. It is a time to focus on the art of being grateful, and to count our blessings which has been shown to improve our mindset and brain health!
Going into the seasons of celebration towards the end of the year, it is important to be intentional about how we structure our time with our loved ones with dementia. There are a lot of things to consider in order to set you and your person up for success.
- Keep in mind that too many activities may be overwhelming (especially if they are new or outside of the festive routine your person are accustomed to)
- However try to maintain as much normalcy (with the unique way you may celebrate this season) but consider simplifying your approach and expectations.
- Including simple decorations throughout your person’s living space that represents the season, may help orientate them to the here and now, and to the season- creating joy and opportunities for reminiscence
- Smells of the season can be included in baking activities, food prepared together or burning a candle ( safe and out of reach)
- Favorite music, movies, and TV shows celebrating the season, can create opportunities for reminiscence which may improve mood, language and social interaction
- Keeping a daily log (even just one line) of what we are thankful for today, helps orient our mood and set the stage for a more positive day
Using the colors, smells and sounds of the season creates opportunities that may allow the whole family, as well as your loved on living with cognitive decline to really enjoy every last bit of the festivities. May we all be able to reflect on the great joys of life and daily give thanks for our blessings.