As our loved ones grow older and may experience cognitive challenges, providing them with engaging and meaningful activities is crucial. Fortunately, experts in dementia care have identified a range of activities that can stimulate the mind, improve physical well-being, and boost emotional health. At CountryHouse, our focus is to ensure that our residents experience these enriching activities in the comfort of a supportive community. 

If you’re looking for top-tier dementia care in Omaha, NE, here are seven of the best activities that our residents love, influenced by our exclusive Seasons program:

#1.) Seasonal Celebrations and Activities

Our unique 52-week Seasons curriculum of life enrichment activities ensures that there’s always something special on the horizon. Inspired by the season, local events, holidays, or attractions, these activities range from educational classes to special trips and festive parties. Whether it’s a trip to a pumpkin patch in autumn or a local musical event in summer, the Seasons program ensures that dementia care services in Omaha are more than just care – they’re about creating cherished memories.

#2.) Exercise and Social Hours 

Regular physical activity and social interactions are vital for everyone, including those living with dementia. Our community offers structured exercise routines and ample opportunities for socializing, ensuring that residents remain active and engaged both physically and mentally.

Benefits of Routine Exercise

• Physical Well-being: Exercise helps in maintaining a healthy weight, improving muscle strength, and increasing flexibility and balance. This, in turn, can reduce the risk of falls – a prevalent concern among seniors.

• Cognitive Health: Studies have shown that regular physical activity can help slow cognitive decline and promote better brain health, making it particularly beneficial for those in dementia care.

• Mood Enhancement: Physical activity releases endorphins, which act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. This can help combat feelings of depression or loneliness that some seniors might experience.

• Chronic Disease Management: Exercise plays a crucial role in managing and reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.

Alongside the physical benefits, our community offers ample opportunities for socializing, ensuring that residents have a platform to forge new friendships and reinforce existing bonds. Engaging in social activities can be equally therapeutic, as it fosters a sense of belonging and emotional well-being.

#3.) Individual Pursuits

While group activities can be a fantastic way to build connections and foster engagement, we recognize the importance of individuality. For those who prefer solitary pursuits or smaller group settings, there are plenty of options available. Having small group options or the opportunity to do things in a one on one setting can be particularly helpful to older adults who are in later stages of cognitive decline. This allows them an environment where they can feel connected and involved but without the risk of becoming overwhelmed or overstimulated. 

#4.) Onsite Entertainment

At CountryHouse, we ensure our residents are regularly treated to the best of the entertainment world. This includes live performances from talented singers and musicians, captivating art sessions, and delightful animal visits – all within the comfortable boundaries of our community. Being immersed in stimulating and entertaining activities and events is vital for helping residents to stay connected to the world around them while also enriching their day to day lives. 

By offering this kind of entertainment on location at our CountryHouse community, we prioritize the safety and wellbeing of all of our residents. They get the feeling of being involved and included but without the stress of leaving a comfortable and familiar environment. While we do offer offsite adventures, as mentioned below, it is great to have a variety of activities, especially for those who might be in the later stages of dementia.  

#5.) Hands-On Activities

Stimulating the mind and encouraging creativity, activities like painting, baking, cooking demonstrations, crafts, and games are regular features of our dementia care in Omaha, NE. Engaging in such hands-on tasks can be incredibly therapeutic and rewarding for our residents.

Not only is it stimulating for the mind, but it can also help to improve fine motor skills. Due to the nature of dementia, the disease can cause cognitive decline which can in turn impact movement. In an effort to slow this decline, we encourage our residents to participate in these types of hands-on activities. Plus, seniors can get a sense of accomplishment by holding something tangible in their hands afterwards, such as a canvas painting or a tin of freshly baked muffins they made themselves. 

#6.) Offsite Adventures

Defying the misconceptions about dementia care, at CountryHouse, adventure is always on the cards! From scenic drives to visits to farms, concerts, water parks, zoos, museums, and even sporting events, our residents get to experience the joys of life to the fullest. Don’t worry, though – all of our outings are supervised by highly trained staff. We want our residents to enjoy these trips in the safest way possible. 

#7.) Community Volunteering

Giving back is a beautiful way to find purpose and connection. Our communities often plan volunteer projects, helping residents make positive impacts while also strengthening their connections to the larger Omaha community. Having this renewed sense of purpose can do wonders for a resident’s mind and spirit. Everyone wants to feel as though they belong and are needed, and here at CountryHouse, we strive to do just that. 

Contact CountryHouse Today!

When seeking out dementia care services in Omaha for your loved one, it’s important to find a community that truly fosters a warm and welcoming environment.  Here at CountryHouse, we are all about ensuring that life remains vibrant, meaningful, and full of delightful experiences for our residents. Through our comprehensive approach and the Seasons program, we create a community where every day brings opportunities for wellness, personal growth, and joyous moments.

To learn more about the types of services we offer, or to schedule a tour of our community, please contact us today! We know that once you step foot onto our Omaha location, you will find a community that will not only meet, but exceed, all of your senior loved one’s needs and expectations.