Getting out and taking a break from the usual routine has a hugely positive impact on someone with dementia. Studies show that it has an equally favorable impact on their loved ones. So, what holds them back? Many believe that arranging day trips for seniors with dementia is daunting. The truth is, with just a little planning and consideration, all can enjoy pleasant day trips and many happy moments.
The benefits of day trips for seniors with dementia and their loved ones
Venturing out to enjoy activities for seniors with dementia offers a whole host of advantages. The simple act of being outdoors provides benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Sunshine provides a good dose of vitamin D to keep bones strong. It can also improve mood and sleep and reduce stress. That is just the beginning. Getting outdoors can bring about a sense of freedom, helping to improve a sense of self and independence.
Outdoor activities like going for a walk can provide gentle exercise to help maintain strength and mobility while also improving mood. Gardening is another great activity for someone with dementia because it gives them the chance to create something beautiful and see the results of their hard work.
Day trip ideas near Jensen Beach, FL for seniors with dementia
Choosing the right activities for seniors with dementia means doing a bit of research and planning. The encouraging news is that more public spaces, like parks, museums, and cafes, are becoming dementia friendly. That means it is easier than ever to have peace of mind that your day will run smoothly, comfortably, and as safely as possible.
Visit a museum or art gallery
Museums and art galleries are typically visually interesting, quiet, calm, and relaxing places. A tranquil atmosphere is usually preferred by seniors with dementia. Crowded or loud settings, on the other hand, can cause them to feel overwhelmed or anxious. For the best experience, call in advance and ask when the venue is least busy. A good place to start is at the Elliott Museum in Stuart, just a short drive from The Cabana at Jensen Dunes, an assisted living and memory care community in Jensen Beach, FL.
Visit positive memories
Taking a trip to a place that sparks positive memories is always a win. Individuals with dementia benefit from activities requiring their long-term memories to be accessed rather than relying on recent memories. Reminiscing can help seniors suffering from depression by focusing on positive aspects of their past to support more optimistic thoughts.
Visit a zoo or aquarium
Animals have a beneficial impact on all of us, especially seniors with conditions like dementia. Seeing, petting, and holding animals can ease anxiety, increase feelings of well-being, encourage socialization, and even lower blood pressure. A visit to a zoo or aquarium is an especially good day trip for seniors who love animals but can no longer care for a pet of their own. Enjoy wildlife up close with a trip to Bush Wildlife Sanctuary in Jupiter, about 45 minutes south of Jensen Beach.
Have a picnic at a park or grab an ice cream
An enjoyable day trip does not have to be long, overly complicated, or expensive! A lovely afternoon together is as simple as a drive to a local park and enjoying an ice cream cone. It is a fresh and uplifting environment, and the ice cream is a bonus.
An afternoon at the beach
Whether taking a walk along the beautiful shorelines in Jensen Beach or sitting and hunting for shells, sun, sand, and surf brighten any day. Later, the shells collected can be used for a craft project. Use them to adorn a picture frame or decoupage them to make sweet trinket holders.
What to look for in a dementia-friendly destination
When planning a day trip for someone with dementia, look for destinations that are accessible. Consider how easy and safe it is to move around the venue, including seating, parking, walkways, and restrooms. Choose a location that is peaceful and will not cause anxiety. Large crowds, excessive noise, and overstimulation can lead to discomfort or confusion. Select activities that are relatively short and do not require many choices or challenges. To help ensure their safety, choose an activity that allows you to stay close and engaged. Walk together in a quiet garden, enjoy a scenic drive, or share a simple hands-on experience like feeding ducks at a pond. Most importantly, make sure the activity is something they will genuinely enjoy based on their interests.
What to do if your loved one is not able to go out on a day trip?
There are many reasons why a senior with dementia may not be able to go out for a day trip. Perhaps they are having a bad day or just not feeling up to it. Thankfully, there are other ways to make your time together fresh and special, and they can be enjoyed from the comfort and safety of home.
Take a virtual tour
Many museums and art galleries, from The Met in New York City to the Louvre in France, now offer virtual tours. They can be watched on your computer or smart TV at any time of the day.
Bring arts and crafts outdoors
Every activity takes on a whole new feel when done in the fresh air and sunshine. From drawing and painting to scrapbooking, there are many artistic endeavors that are easily moved outdoors. The bonus is that art therapy has been proven to reduce depression and anxiety as well as provide sensory stimulation and cognitive exercise for seniors with dementia.
Let birdwatching and stargazing take you away
These enjoyable activities can be done from the comfort of a seat by a window or in a garden. Identifying different local species of birds or finding star constellations on a clear evening are perfect ways to feel closer to nature.
Discover the joys of gardening
Your loved one’s unique abilities can dictate how they want to enjoy gardening. If they have good physical mobility, you can create a raised garden outdoors so they may grow their favorite vegetables and flowers. From planting the seeds and watering to harvesting, the ever-changing garden is a miracle to behold. Alternatively, indoor plants or a terrarium can bring just as much joy to someone living with dementia. These options are great for those who are not as mobile.
Get more ideas and assistance from your memory care community
If your loved one lives in a memory care community like The Cabana at Jensen Dunes in Jensen Beach, FL, let them be your resource for the best day trips for seniors with dementia. You can count on them to help you choose appropriate and enriching activities for day trips for seniors with dementia. They can also help you and your loved one prepare so a safe and pleasant day is assured.
Discover how The Cabana helps residents and their friends and families plan and enjoy fulfilling day trips. Just give us a call at 772-758-1003 or contact us here.