Written by Anna Bullough

Caring for a senior with dementia comes with its challenges, but it’s important to find moments of happiness and connection amidst the difficulties. These fun activities for seniors with dementia can brighten your loved one’s day and bring a smile to both of your faces.

Are you ready to explore some springtime activities that can bring joy to your elderly loved one, even in the face of dementia? Together you can enjoy the sun shining, flowers blooming, and the air filled with a gentle breeze – it’s the perfect time to create cherished memories together.

Here Are 7 Fun Spring Activities for Seniors with Dementia:

1. Go on a Walk

Let’s start our spring adventure with a calming walk outside – one of the best outdoor spring activities for seniors. Walking in a familiar place can help your loved one feel safe and happy. Plus, being surrounded by nature’s beauty can make the experience even more enjoyable.

As you walk, encourage your loved one to take in the sights, sounds, and smells around them. Feeling the sun, hearing the birds, and smelling the flowers can bring back fond memories and make them feel more connected.

Remember, it’s not about how far or fast you walk. It’s about enjoying each other’s company and the beauty of nature. So, put on your walking shoes, step outside, and savor the simple joy of a springtime stroll together.

2. Birdwatch

Set up a bird feeder or bird bath in your garden or outside your window for a front-row seat to nature’s majestic bird show. Fill the feeder with birdseed or scatter some breadcrumbs, and then sit back and wait for your feathered friends to arrive.

Birdwatching offers a tranquil and meditative experience, allowing you to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. So, if you need calming activities for dementia patients, instead of watching a television screen enjoy the view out the window.

As you watch the birds fly around, take the opportunity to sit next to your loved one and talk. Point out different types of birds. Ask your loved one if they see any difference in the colors, sounds, or behaviors of the birds. 

Pull out the binoculars, set up a chair, and let the beauty of birdwatching enrich your springtime experience with your loved one.

3. Paint a Picture

Add a splash of color to life with some outdoor painting! Engaging in creative activities like painting or other spring craft ideas for seniors can be incredibly therapeutic for seniors with dementia. Crafts can provide a means of self-expression and a moment of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Set up a cozy painting station in your backyard or a peaceful corner of your home’s patio. Provide your loved one with a bunch of brushes, paints, and canvases, and encourage them to let their imagination run wild.

You might be wondering, “But what if they can’t paint like they used to?” Or maybe art has never been a personal passion of theirs. Remember, it’s not about creating a masterpiece – it’s about the joy of the process itself. Encourage them to experiment with colors and shapes, embracing the freedom to express themselves in whatever way feels natural. You can ask if they’d prefer to start with a blank page or a printed outline of another picture. 

As they immerse themselves in the act of painting, you’ll see a complete change take place in them. The focus and concentration required to paint can help them alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety. And the act of creating something beautiful can instill a sense of accomplishment and pride.

So, grab your paintbrushes and join your loved one on this artistic adventure. Together, you’ll create something beautiful.

4. Go to a Dog Park

A short visit to the dog park can go a long way to help your loved one experience the companionship of these furry friends without needing to commit to owning and caring for a dog yourself. Watching dogs play and interact with each other can be incredibly entertaining and soothing. These playful four-legged cuties can make you both smile and can help your loved one feel more connected to the present moment. 

Gardening offers numerous benefits for individuals with dementia. The act of tending to plants can promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. Also, the sensory experience of touching the soil, smelling the flowers, and seeing the colors can improve brain function and bring back some fun memories.

Find a nearby dog park where you can sit comfortably and watch the lively activities of the dogs. Take some snacks and drinks to enjoy while you watch. With permission from the dog owners, encourage your loved one to pet and play with the dogs if they feel comfortable.

5. Plant a Garden

Creating a small garden together can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment, as well as a connection to nature. Start with a little drive to your local garden center. Let your loved one pick out a few easy-to-care-for plants and flowers that will thrive in your area. You may even want to suggest fragrant herbs like lavender or mint, vibrant blooms like marigolds or pansies, or even simple succulents.

You can lend a hand when needed, but it’s great to let your loved one get involved too – even if it means getting a little messy! If kneeling isn’t possible, move the pots to a table where they can help comfortably. Planting seeds, watering plants, or simply enjoying the garden’s beauty can all make them feel good.

As you work in the garden together, you’ll create a beautiful outdoor space and cultivate a deeper connection with each other. So, roll up your sleeves, get your hands dirty, and let the healing power of gardening transform your springtime experience into something extra special.

6. Have a Picnic

Picnics not only allow you to bask in the beauty of nature, but they’re also an opportunity for your loved ones with dementia to engage their senses and connect with you on a deeper level.

Choose a serene setting, perhaps a nearby park or the comforting shade of your own backyard. Bring along their favorite treats – make sure you cater to their dietary needs and preferences.

As you enjoy scrumptious sandwiches, fresh fruits, and a nice drink, let the conversation flow. 

Reminiscing is especially important for those with dementia. It helps bring back memories and keeps them feeling connected to their past. So, share stories and memories. It’s a way to bring joy and comfort to their day, even when things get tough. In these simple yet profound exchanges, you’ll find the threads of joy and connection that knit your hearts together.

If they’re up for an activity or two, pack something like a deck of cards, a good book, or a playful game of catch. These little touches can spark laughter and create cherished memories.

So, grab your picnic basket, gather your favorite treats, and immerse yourselves in the splendor of the great outdoors. With a sprinkle of love and a dash of creativity, your springtime picnic can become a beautiful tradition.

7. Listen to Music Outdoors

Music has an amazing ability to stir emotions and memories from long ago. For seniors with dementia, music can be especially powerful and can give them a sense of comfort and connection when words fail.

Create a playlist filled with their favorite tunes from yesteryears, whether it’s jazz, classical, or oldies but goodies. Find a warm spot in the yard and set up a few chairs where you can listen to the music together. Let the melodies transport you to another time and place, and then watch where the conversation goes. 

You might be surprised by the songs that resonate most with your loved one, stirring memories of their youth or special moments shared with loved ones. Encourage them to sing along, tap their feet, or even dance if they feel inclined.

Music therapy has been shown to improve mood, reduce agitation, and enhance overall well-being for individuals with dementia. 

Springtime Activities for Seniors with Dementia

Enjoy the beauty of spring with your loved one by venturing outdoors. Getting up and moving in the sunshine is proven to help the body, mind, and soul – so take some time to get outside while the weather is nice!

At Suzy’s Senior Services, we understand the challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia. Finding meaningful and appropriate activities can be tough, especially if your loved one has limited mobility. 

Hopefully you can create some joy through the activities above! And if you need some assistance, we’re here for you every step of the way. Suzy’s Senior Services is your partner in creating memorable moments and enhancing quality of life for your loved ones. 

Give us a call today to learn about our personalized care options and for more activities for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Together, let’s make this spring a season of renewal for you and your cherished loved one.

Give us a call at 801-540-2077 and let’s start this caregiving journey together.

I am ever so grateful and blessed that we found Suzy for my mom!

“I was looking for companionship for Mom that was genuine and consistent – not ever changing, a friend, a confident, and a true fun person that would understand Mom’s needs. 

At 89 years old, she is still planting flowers, sewing, painting, decorating, and loves to go out to eat! I was referred to Suzy from the county senior citizens resource, and it was the best thing that ever happened! 

Mom has a true friend in Trena who visits once a week. They do the things that need to get done and then they have some fun! It is a real friendship. 

This is the most genuine and caring business owner I have ever known. Suzy has high standards and is driven by loving and caring for our seniors. It shows in all they do!”

– S. Fisher
Naperville, Illinois

For personal care services for elderly adults near Bountiful, Utah, call us at 801-540-2077 to learn more.