We carefully design each activity to engage individuals and stimulate memories and experiences. Below are 12 examples of activities offered in our community.

1. Reminiscence Therapy

Reminiscence replaces direct questions with gentle prompts. This relieves stress on individuals with memory issues and allows the memories to surface naturally in a calm environment. Examples of this therapy include looking at photographs in family albums and talking about favorite holiday memories.

2. Trivia

Trivia and nostalgia games offer a fun pastime for individuals and groups. We use monthly and holiday-themed trivia to reinforce the current date and celebrate special aspects of each season. Other selections, such as Finish the Lyric and location-based trivia, help improve memory recall and teach fun facts.

3. Lifelong Learning

At any age, learning engages the mind and helps invoke excitement and interest. Our staff leads discussion groups and history lessons about simple but thought-provoking topics and locations. We also regularly show documentaries on well-known celebrities, musicians and notable individuals to encourage conversations among residents.

4. Art

Art is an excellent tool for memory care. Doodling and coloring activities invite self-expression and help encourage a sense of individualism. Guided lessons on painting and watercolors provide the chance to learn new skills and abilities while providing the comfort of on-hand staff to help as needed.

5. Puzzles

Puzzles challenge the mind to think through a problem and come up with a solution. This makes them an ideal offering in memory care. Some of our residents' favorites include:

• Jigsaw puzzles
• Crosswords
• Hidden pictures
• Matching games
• Sorting challenges

6. Board Games

Besides offering a nostalgic pastime, board games provide a wide range of cognitive benefits. Q-bitz and other matching activities prompt recognition and sharpen reaction times. Meanwhile, Tetra Tower and ring toss games nurture focus, awareness and decision-making skills.

7. Religious Activities

Religious activities, including Bible studies and church services, encourage personal and mental growth. Memorizing Scripture challenges the brain and requires perseverance. The desire to learn and understand Biblical concepts can help fuel efforts and lead to an easier time learning other skills and information.

8. Music

Research shows music has many positive impacts on the brain. The mind has to work to recognize the rhythm, beat and sounds of a song. This provides a powerful cognitive workout that's fun and engaging. It also helps boost mood, memory recall and mental awareness.

9. Indoor Gardening

Gardening provides excellent practice for focus and planning. It requires learning new skills and information. Plus, it can stir up old memories of past gardening experiences and provide a sense of accomplishment. Indoor gardening makes it possible to reap these benefits even when the weather here in Monument, CO, is cold or rainy.

10. Sensory Games

Sensory therapies are the gold standard for memory care communities. This hands-on approach to engagement allows seniors to interact directly with objects that may stimulate memories, emotions and communication skills. In sensory games, including Know Your Nose, familiar smells, sights and sounds help direct thoughts and enhance reminiscing.

11. Scenic Drives

Scenic drives enable exploration in the comforting familiarity of a selected vehicle and group. The change in location and scenery can capture attention and promote memories of frequently visited locations. The time outdoors can help reduce stress and stir up positive emotions that may foster pleasant memories.

12. Activity and Creativity Boxes

Here in Monument, we tailor care to the needs and preferences of each resident. Activity and creativity boxes enable us to provide mental stimulation appropriate to individual abilities. This helps prevent boredom and ensures residents are gently challenged without being overwhelmed.

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