The start of the new year brings resolutions, lifestyle changes, and more. The month of January is also known as International Quality of Life Month.
According to the University of Minnesota, “This first month of the year symbolizes a new beginning and is a great time to reflect on the quality of your life and its purpose.”
Quality of life does not necessarily diminish as dementia progresses. If your loved one was recently diagnosed with dementia it may feel like a life sentence, but that is not the case. Cognitive decline does not mean a person will not live a fulfilling life.
There will be difficult days when it seems like your loved one is not his or herself. However, just like any other person, your loved one deserves moments of joy and to have a chance at an enriching life.
The Puzzle Pieces for Maximizing Quality of Life
Utah State University’s Aging Extension says that in order to maximize a person’s quality of life while living with dementia caregivers should focus on the following eight elements:
- Movement
- Joy
- Hobbies and Activities
- Socialization
- Basic Care
- Feelings of Love
- Comfort and Pain Management
- Environment
It starts with ensuring that your loved one moves throughout the day; has moments of joy and social interactions; and feels safe and loved, all while having his/her basic health needs met. These things together can ensure people with dementia achieve a vibrant life just like anyone else.
Meaningful Activities to Boost Mood
In a study examining the quality of life among people living with dementia, it was found that there is a strong relationship between mood and positive events for both the caregiver and the loved one in improving quality of life outcomes.
“Older adults with chronic illness, particularly those with dementia, are especially vulnerable to loss of pleasant events as increasing cognitive impairment causes a loss of ability to engage in rewarding and enjoyable activities.” (Logsdon RG, McCurry SM, Teri L. Evidence-Based Interventions to Improve Quality of Life for Individuals with Dementia)
The study noted that without those activities there were higher instances of depression, lack of self, and poor relationships with family and friends.
Daily Activities:
- Puzzles
- Cooking
- Spending time with grandchildren or other family members
- Day programs
Small and simple daily activities like puzzles can provide a sense of stability and self-worth for a person living with dementia. A puzzle or a LEGO project can be done in small intervals each day and is something to look forward to and also provides the similar feeling of “going to work” each day.
International Quality of Life Month serves as a powerful reminder that life’s quality does not have to diminish with challenges such as dementia. By fostering love, comfort, and opportunities for enrichment, caregivers can help their loved ones experience vibrant and fulfilling lives.
