Reminiscence & Dementia Blog

Dementia & The Importance Of Activities  

Become a CDP Certified Dementia Practitioner

I have seen the tremendous benefit the Memory Detecting  reminiscence activity has produced at various senior care organizations throughout Massachusetts & Rhode Island the past 5 years. Engaging dementia patients in activities is crucial for maintaining their cognitive function, emotional well-being, and quality of life. Structured activities, such as art, music, or physical exercises, stimulate the brain, which can help slow the progression of memory loss and cognitive decline. These activities also provide opportunities for patients to express themselves, which is especially important as communication becomes more challenging. 

Social interactions during activities can reduce feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety that are common among individuals with dementia. Additionally, engaging in familiar hobbies or routines can evoke positive memories and offer a sense of purpose and identity. Physical activities, like walking or light exercise, can improve overall health, mobility, and sleep patterns. Involvement in meaningful activities gives patients a chance to connect with others, fostering a sense of accomplishment and improving their overall well-being. In short, activities are a vital tool in enhancing the lives of those with dementia. The importance of activities is a key component in the Alzheimers Disease & Dementia Care Seminar. This seminar is the required class to earn your CDP Certified Dementia Practitioner designation.  

Want To Enhance Your Career and Your Care In 1 Day Guaranteed?

Join us for one of the upcoming Alzheimers Disease and Dementia Care Zoom seminars. Complete the seminar and get your CDP Certified Dementia Practioner Designation from the NCCDP National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners.  You can click the link below to register and enhance your care and your career.

Click this Link to Learn More, & Join the Seminar!

One of the many big hits during the memory detecting reminiscence program is a “simple” toy gun. Many of the seniors think that it is a cap gun and so did I initially. It certainly looks like a cap gun. Discussions and memories start to focus on playing games with the local neighborhood boys and girls. Who was going to be the cowboy? Who is going to be the Indian? However, when I tell them that this toy gun is actually a very simple slide projector that was branded with a very popular cowboy of the 1940’s, it is always a big hit. Hop Along Cassidy is the cowboy that was used to market this “toy”.

This isn’t a cap gun at all, it is a very basic slide projector. The guns trigger was used to move the roll of slides that were inserted in the gun one by one. It had a slot to place a small battery inside to help with the illuminating the slides. Apparently it was a popular toy in the 1940’s. Seniors will often reflect on all the great cowboys of the day. Many I have heard of, many I haven’t. Cowboys like Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, Tom Mix, and Dale Evans are often discussed.

Hop Along Cassidy always brings a smile to their faces. I have learned that William Boyd was the famous actor that played Hop Along Cassidy for the 66 popular television shows that aired in the 1940’s. Of course his horse Topper is always mentioned as well. I remember thinking Trigger was his horse but of course Trigger was Roy Rogers horse.

While conducting these programs I kind of feel like a band leader who has a popular song that you know everyone is going to enjoy. A favorite hit of sorts. This is one of those artifacts that always gets the crowd engaged.

So here’s to the great cowboys of the 1940’s-1950’s, and here’s to reminiscing.

Want To Enhance Your Career and Your Care In 1 Day Guaranteed?

Join us for one of the upcoming Alzheimers Disease and Dementia Care Zoom seminars. Complete the seminar and get your CDP Certified Dementia Practioner Designation from the NCCDP National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners.  You can click the link below to register and enhance your care and your career.

Click this Link to Learn More, & Join the Seminar!