Spiritual activities can be essential to the well-being of your elderly loved one. This is not to be confused with religion – anyone, religious or not, can be spiritual. When introducing spiritual activities for your elderly loved one, always keep in mind their individual beliefs and preferences. Read on to find out some suggestions for spiritual activities for your loved one.
Reading Religious Poems or Passages
If your loved one identifies with a religion, reading some poems or passages from a holy book can be a good idea. The best part is that this activity does not require them to remember anything, and comes with the benefit of improving mood and concentration.
Listening to Hymns
Did you know that music is one of the strongest triggers of memory? If your elderly loved one is living with dementia, playing hymns they used to know in their childhood can prove to be highly soothing. If they are able to, encourage your loved one to hum or sing along.
Connecting with Nature
As mentioned earlier, spirituality does not necessarily have to involve religion. Connecting with nature can be a great way of tapping into our inner selves and relaxing our souls. Taking your loved one out for a leisurely walk, visiting a petting zoo where they can interact with animals, or watching the stars are all ways your loved one can connect with their inner selves spiritually.
Creating an Altar
In some religions, the use of a shrine or altar is connected to spirituality. If your loved one would like to create one, you can assist them in ways such as picking flowers for the shrine or helping them to embellish it.
Storytelling Through Pictures
Is it frustrating for your loved one who lives with dementia when they cannot bring certain memories to mind? If so, this fun storytelling is failure-free and sure to be a meaningful bonding activity. Show your loved one a picture and let them make up a story around it. You may wish to go first if your loved one is having trouble with the activity. You can also ask them questions to help them along the way. These pictures can be obtained from any source, including storybooks and calendars.
Live Your Best Retirement Life at Morada Quintessence
Do you or a loved one require assistance with activities of daily living, but would like complete freedom to customize your retirement lifestyle otherwise? If so, make the move to Morada Quintessence today and discover the difference we can make. With senior assisted living and respite care options, our residents can benefit from a holistic wellness program that takes into account all aspects of health, including spiritual.
If you are keen to make the move but would like more information before taking the leap, feel free to check out our available floorplans and schedule a tour of our stylish campus today.
