Holistic Ways to Support Individuals Living with Dementia

Dementia is a progressive neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It impacts not only the individuals diagnosed but also their families, friends, and loved ones. As there is currently no cure for dementia, a holistic approach to care and support is crucial to enhancing the well-being of those living with this condition. In addition to managing the symptoms of dementia, holistic care addresses an individual’s physical, emotional, mental, and social needs.

The memory care services we offer in Boca Raton, Florida, instill a holistic approach to care, bringing joy and meaning to every day. Our Sunscape™ Boca Raton team is exploring holistic and complementary ways to support individuals living with dementia, encompassing various domains that contribute to their overall well-being.

Person-Centered Dementia Care

At the heart of holistic dementia care is the concept of person-centered care. This approach recognizes the uniqueness of each individual and tailors care to their preferences, needs, and abilities. Caregivers and healthcare professionals can create a sense of belonging and purpose by engaging in active listening and understanding their life history, interests, and values.

No two dementia journeys are the same, and this is something we fully understand at our memory care community in Boca Raton. We honor individual preferences and legacies by customizing all memory care programming. Starting with a wellness review of each resident’s abilities and a discussion about their passions, we take a personalized approach to support that creates moments that are meaningful to them every day.

Physical Well-Being

Maintaining physical health is essential for individuals with dementia. Encourage regular exercise that suits their abilities, such as walking, stretching, or gentle yoga. Physical activity can improve circulation, reduce restlessness, and promote better sleep. A balanced diet rich in nutrients can support brain health, while proper hydration is also crucial.

Mental Stimulation

Engaging in cognitive activities can help individuals with dementia maintain and strengthen mental function. Puzzles, memory games, reading, and creative hobbies like painting or crafting can provide mental stimulation and a sense of accomplishment.

At Sunscape Boca Raton, we use our Valeo™ Signature Programs to help individuals living with dementia stay active and engaged. One of these programs, VITA!, builds on comfort and structure to enhance the physical and cognitive benefits of routines. Our wellness team members use VITA! to incorporate mental stimulation like brain teasers into a resident’s daily routine.

Emotional Support & Connection

Dementia can bring about a range of emotions, including confusion, frustration, and anxiety. Emotional support is vital and can be achieved through therapeutic activities such as music therapy, art therapy, and pet therapy. Listening to familiar music or spending time with animals can trigger positive emotions and reduce stress.

Two of our Valeo™ Signature Programs that help with this include:

• Create and Compose: Residents are encouraged to take part in activities like playing music and painting. Program leaders can guide residents through programs or give them the freedom to express themselves as they see fit.
• Creature Comforts: Gentle animals such as dogs and birds come into our memory care community to meet with residents. During Creature Comforts events, residents can interact with animals in a safe, supportive environment.

Creative Expression

Because individuals living with dementia may have new challenges with speaking or language, helping them find new ways to communicate can be highly beneficial. Encouraging creative expression through art, music, dance, or poetry can tap into an individual’s inner world and help them communicate their thoughts and feelings.

Social Engagement

Maintaining social connections is essential for emotional well-being. Regular interaction with family members, friends, and support groups can help individuals feel connected and valued. Community involvement and participation in group events can foster a sense of belonging.

Mindfulness and Relaxation

Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help manage anxiety and promote a sense of calm. Breathing exercises, meditation, and gentle movement therapies like tai chi can reduce stress and improve emotional well-being for those living with dementia.

In addition, holistic therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and acupressure can help alleviate physical discomfort and promote relaxation.

Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

Certain scents have been shown to positively impact mood and memory. For instance, using essential oils like lavender or citrus can create a soothing atmosphere and alleviate anxiety or agitation.

Connecting with Nature

Spending time in nature has therapeutic benefits for individuals with dementia. Outdoor walks, gardening, or simply sitting in a garden can provide a sense of peace and connection to the natural world.

Supporting individuals living with dementia requires a holistic approach that addresses their physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being. This is something we do well at Sunscape Boca Raton. Our Salus™ Wellness Philosophy incorporates the dimensions of wellness into every aspect of the services and amenities we provide.

Each person’s dementia journey is unique, and tailoring care to their individual needs and preferences can make a significant difference in their well-being and happiness. See what we have to offer for yourself and experience how we can enhance the life of someone you love by scheduling a visit to our memory care community in Boca Raton, Florida.