END ALZHEIMER'S #ENDALZ #TheLongestDay

From the Alzheimer's Association:

 "On June 21 — the summer solstice — people across the world will participate in a fundraising activity on The Longest Day. Together, the strength of our light will outshine the darkness of Alzheimer’s."

 "How to Participate

It's easy — choose an activity you like to do and turn it into a fundraiser to fight Alzheimer's! Get started in three easy steps:

1  Register

Sign up and select the fundraising activity you'd like to do.

2  Fundraise

Set up your fundraising page and add details about your activity.

3  Invite Others

Ask others to fundraise with you or simply donate to help you meet your goal.

Get Started Now

Start fundraising early and you’ll make an even greater difference! The Longest Day staff and volunteers will be there every step of the way with tools, tips and coaching. Together, the strength of our light will outshine the darkness of Alzheimer's."

 

http://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=11896&pg=entry&_ga=2.49036453.247191498.1558815121-2051955057.1558815121

 

Reminiscence Therapy for Dementia & Alzheimer's

Reminiscence therapy, having elderly and dementia patients recall the past, is growing in popularity because of its many benefits. This therapy can be used at home by simply showing old photos to elderly relatives and asking them to explain about the events and people in the pictures. Or reminiscences therapy can involve changes to the patients' entire environment.

This article discusses the methods and benefits of reminiscence therapy: https://www.verywellhealth.com/reminiscence-as-activity-and-therapy-97499

 An article about a California town: "Fake ’50s town offers real benefits for people with dementia" https://www.curbed.com/2018/9/20/17882054/alzheimers-center-town-square-dementia-glenner

 A museum with old product brands aids reminiscence therapy:

https://www.designweek.co.uk/issues/11-17-march-2019/museum-of-brands-uses-classic-packaging-to-help-those-with-dementia

A senior living facility with rooms designed to help with memories: https://www.weau.com/content/news/New-rooms-at-senior-living-facility-in-Altoona-hope-to-trigger-old-memories-507425481.html

Using virtual reality to recreate the past:  https://www.thedailybeast.com/how-virtual-reality-can-help-fight-dementia

New,   

Activities for Dementia Patients

I found a wonderful website for those caring for Alzheimer's and dementia patients.

Adventures of a Caregiver has many resources including a list of more than 75 activities for people with Alzheimer's or other dementia. Suggestions range from coloring easy drawings, to making sundaes, to watching old musicals on TV (for those who can no longer follow the plot of a movie). You can find the full list here:

https://adventuresofacaregiver.com/75-stimulating-activities-for-alzheimers-dementia-patients/

George Washington

John Adams: Old minds are like old horses; you must exercise them if you wish to keep them in working order.