Lewy Body Phrase for 10-28: Enhancing Activities

Enhancing activities like mental stimulation, sociability and music enhance self-esteem, enjoyment and quality of life, thus decreasing behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.

Mental stimulation improves and maintains brain function.

• Adapt to lower skill levels with easier books, puzzles or games, but don't quit.

Socialization fosters positive emotions, cognitive function, well-being and better quality of life.

• Invite friends or family members (1-2 a time) to visit in the person's home.
• Encourage continued participation in beloved sports, games and hobbies, simplified for more socialization and less challenge.
• Encourage continued participation in social and religious organizations. Choose smaller groups when possible.

Music and rhythm provide a different pathway to the brain. It can be calming or energizing, and can increase cognition for hours after a session.

• Make a playlist of the person's favorite songs that they can listen to with earphones.
• Use rhythm to facilitate movement.

These are only three of a long list of enhancing activities....

For more information about Lewy body disorders, read our books:
A Caregivers’ Guide to Lewy Body Dementia
Managing Cognitive Issues in Parkinson's and Lewy Body Dement

Helen and James Whitworth are not doctors, lawyers or social workers. As informed caregivers, they share the information here for educational purposes only. It should never be used instead of a professional's advice.