Live in Care shares their insight on how to help those at home.
The series of lockdowns through the Covid-19 pandemic turned life upside down as heavy restrictions were placed on our movements. The ‘stay at home’ message was tough on many people but was undoubtedly tougher on the most vulnerable people in society, mainly elderly people and those who’s health problems meant they were required to take extra care by shielding.
This presented a problem for care at home providers who had to find new ways of keeping their patients’ minds and bodies active and entertained while they could not receive visitors. The challenge was to find a series of online activities to enjoy for those with their own internet-enabled device and those who have to share.
One of the first destinations was Skype, Facetime or Zoom to enable people to keep in touch with loved ones and friends.
BBC REMINISCENCE ARCHIVE
Research has shown that dementia patients are comforted by reminders of happy events and places from long ago. The BBC provides a large archive of videos, sound clips and photographs which are freely available. Access the BBC Reminiscence Archive here and then select a theme or decade to find image, audio or video content.
MY REEF 3D AQUARIUM
This is good for those with advanced dementia. It gives users an opportunity to engage in stocking the fish tank virtually then sitting back to watch the 14 different types of fish. The MYReef 3D Aquarium is available to download through the Google playstore.
Another fish-related app is the Retro Fish Game for cognitive skills which helps to keep the brain active and improve hand to eye coordination.
COLOURING WEBSITES
Colouring in is a great activity for all ages, hence the resurgence of colouring books available to buy, particularly for adults. In the absence of actual colouring books there are various websites which allow for virtual colouring in of all kinds of images. The touchscreen types work especially well for dementia patients who may struggle to get to grips with pens or pencils.
ONLINE EXERCISE CLASSES
It’s essential for older people to keep active and this can be difficult where restrictions on movement are in place. Go online to look for free exercise classes specifically tailored for older people. Simple, chair-based exercises to music can benefit all fitness levels as well as providing interest and entertainment. For the more active, the Strictly Come Dancing collection on YouTube or BBC iPlayer is a great source of fun.
Whether it’s music and memories, exercise, nature, gardening, theatre or education, everything can be found online with just a few clicks.
This is a guest post from liveInCare, Westway CT has received no financial renumeration for the sharing of this content. Westway CT, is sharing the content as it may be useful for Westway CT users, their carers and/or family members. Live in Care have previously contributed the article “How I can help my community”
