Dementia can put a damper on every relationship and it can be especially difficult when Dad may not remember you. Instead of focusing on the lost relationship, make the most of the time you have together. Many people with dementia still have a degree of intact long-term memories, so reminiscing about the past is a good way to connect. Learning stories about Dad as a child can be a wonderful way to get perspective on the man, the myth, the legend.
Here are 19 activities for fathers day that you can do together.:
- Bring a photo album to look through
- If he doesn’t know who you are, but has memories of you, ask him to tell you a story about a time you were together
- Sort baseball cards or poker chips
- Toss a ball
- Play Dominoes
- Sing old songs or listen to music
- Ask him about his brothers and sisters, or his childhood
- Feed the ducks or put seed out for the birds
- Look at a comic book
- Play or sort cards
- Ask him about his first car
- Talk about sports, even if he thinks Babe Ruth is still playing
- Go for a walk
- Sand wood
- Put a puzzle together
- Count coins or put them in a jar
- Remember famous people
- Play horseshoes
- Have a picnic
Remember that while your reality may not have changed, his has and following his routine and mood will make the visit more enjoyable for both of you.
CayCare is available to help you help ensure your loved one’s well-being. CayCare is a referral agency, offering placement services, in-home care coordination, and care management services in Pierce, King, Kitsap, and Thurston counties. Since 2005, we have helped thousands of seniors – and their families – navigate the challenges of aging, assisting them in leading fulfilling and purposeful lives. If you have questions about these services please call us at 253-777-3804 or toll free 1-844-582-7767.