How to Make TV Time Peaceful for Seniors with Dementia
It's no secret that people watch television differently. Some people like to have it on full blast while multitasking, while others keep it light and pay their full attention. There's no right or wrong way to enjoy your favorite shows, but it is interesting to see how everyone's viewing habits differ.
For those who like to have the volume up high, it's probably because they're used to having a lot of noise in their environment. This could be due to living in a busy city or working in a noisy office. Having the television on at a high volume helps them to tune out the other noise and focus on what they're watching.
On the other hand, those who prefer to keep the volume low may be more sensitive to sound or simply want to give their full attention to the show. This can create a more immersive experience and help you appreciate the story's nuances.
That said, the way seniors watch TV is also varied depending on their health and overall condition. For example, seniors with dementia might enjoy TV time differently from those without. In today's article, let's explore a few ways you can help a loved one with dementia watch TV peacefully.
Here's what you need to know:
Watch Together
Studies have shown that seniors with dementia who watch TV with someone they know and trust can experience a decrease in anxiety and depression. And in some cases, it can even help improve their cognitive functioning.
Television can be a great source of entertainment and companionship for seniors with dementia. However, for seniors with dementia, watching TV can be a bit more challenging. That's why it's important to have someone there to keep them company while they watch. This way, they can still enjoy the experience, and you can help them make sense of what they're seeing.
Trust the Usual
It might be good to stick to familiar programming when watching TV with seniors with dementia. Dementia is a broad term used to describe a decline in mental ability. This can include memory loss, problem-solving difficulties, and mood or personality changes.
For many seniors, watching television is a favorite pastime. But, as dementia progresses, it can become more and more difficult to follow along with what's happening on the screen.
That's why it's often a good idea to stick to familiar programming. This can include favorite shows from their younger years or current shows they've been watching for a long time. Familiar programming can provide comfort and stability for a senior with dementia. It can also be an excellent way to connect with them and reminisce about memories.
Keep It Light
Knowing how to help seniors with dementia watch TV peacefully can be difficult. The key is to keep it light. One way to find appropriate shows is to look for programs specifically designed for seniors with dementia. The Alzheimer's Association has a list of recommended shows you can check out.
Another option is to create a selection of favorite movies that your loved one can repeatedly watch. This can be a great way to provide some familiar entertainment while avoiding overly complex plotlines.
The Bottom Line
Watching TV can be great for seniors with dementia. It can help provide them with stimulation and social interaction and can help ease their anxiety and depression. Additionally, it can help them stay connected to the outside world and maintain their cognitive abilities. Just make sure to do your part to help make it a peaceful and enjoyable time for them.
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