By Melanie Horn Mallers and Laura Zellel-Watson, Ph.D. Gerontology
Play, a fundamental aspect of human life, is increasingly recognized as a powerful tool in dementia care. The term "play" isn't about infantilizing individuals with dementia but creating enriching environments. Play, particularly through multi-sensory stimulation, can address the deficiencies in stimulating environments for those with cognitive decline.
Among the many areas impacted by dementia, executive functioning is crucial. Play, especially with manipulatives now available from the new company Geri-Gadgets, offers opportunities for improved manual dexterity, a vital factor in moderate to severe dementia stages. Research indicates that playing with toys can lead to improvements in various aspects, including behavior, motor skills, emotional well-being, spatial awareness, and even verbal output in some cases.
Moreover, play can be an invaluable addition to dementia care, providing unstructured stimulation, opportunities for self-directed engagement, and bright colors to combat color perception loss. Caregivers, both formal and nonformal, play a vital role in the care process, but they often experience high stress and burnout. Fidget toys can offer distractions, reduce restlessness, and alleviate stress for both caregivers and individuals with dementia.
One of Geri-Gadgets' goals is to help individuals with dementia express themselves fully. This approach is aligned with the concept of stopping pathologizing and starting nurturing and empowering care. By affording those with dementia creative and engaging opportunities, we can optimize their quality of life.
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